Cameron drives 2,000,000th Mini

David Cameron drives the 2,000,000th new Mini off the production line
12 April 2012

David Cameron got in the driving seat for the first time in more than a year - steering the 2,000,000th new Mini off the production line.

The Prime Minister was given the honour at the plant in Cowley, Oxford, where the new-look Minis have been manufactured since 2001.

Speaking before getting behind the steering wheel, Mr Cameron, MP for nearby Witney, said: "There are lots of great things you get to do as Prime Minister, but one of those things you don't get to do is drive a car.

"For over a year now I haven't driven a car, so I can't tell you what pleasure it's going to give me to get into the 2,000,000th Mini."

Mr Cameron drove the car on to the assembly area floor where staff were waiting, having first slightly overshot the corner, causing him to have to reverse to complete the manoeuvre.

He could be forgiven for having some difficulties - not just because he has not driven since becoming Prime Minister, but because it was a left-hand-drive car.

After driving the short distance he said it had been "a thrill" and added: "Minis have been a fantastic success story, not just for Oxford but for the UK. For me personally, it's a bit of a thrill because I don't get to drive any more - even though it was only 20 yards."

Mr Cameron, who was on his first visit to the plant, congratulated Mini staff and said he was "very proud" to be there to mark the achievement.

He also stressed the importance of apprenticeships, speaking to three young people on the factory floor who are undergoing such a scheme at Mini.

The 2,000,000th Mini to be made at the site is to be entered into a draw at the end of September, with one lucky Facebook user driving off with the silver car. Mr Cameron made his own mark on it, signing his name on one of its panels.

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