Honda's Swindon factory is facing a temporary shut-down for the second time this year due to a shortage of vital parts. The Japanese car manufacturer said some of the factory would shut down from 18 to 21 January.

In a statement Honda UK said the latest issue was caused by a shortage of semi-conductors for electronic systems used in vehicles. Earlier this month a two-day shutdown was blamed on global supply delays.

The factory employs around 3,000 people, is due close permanently in July, but current problems are causing rumours that this could be brought forward. The company is currently monitoring the short-term situation with a view to restarting production 22 January.