What the papers say: January 5

We review the car-related news in today's papers.

Back to work? Not for the car industry
The Daily Telegraph reports that many car industry workers won't be returning to work today because of extended breaks ordered by many manufacturers. Bentley has the longest stoppage, with its production line remaining idle from December 11 to January 12. The paper also reports that the Mini plant in Oxford will close for an extra three days this month, while Vauxhall workers have been given up to a month off over Christmas.
The Daily Telegraph

Low oil price will help to fuel UK economy
Some good news from the papers today, as The Daily Telegraph reports that low oil prices could help boost economic growth by up to 1.2% in the next two years. The research from the Ernst & Young Item Club calculates that if oil prices stabilise at $20 a barrel, the economy could grow by 0.4% more than it otherwise would this year and by a further 0.8% during 2010.
The Daily Telegraph

Oil spike will effect jobs for years to come
The Times looks at the UK's economic prospects as the recession continues to bite. The paper says that a spike in oil prices, as experienced in the summer of 2008, is a common sign that a downturn is sure to follow. It also says that high fuel prices erode profit margins and can lead to job losses up to four years after the initial spike.
The Times

Britain skids back to work
The Sun reports on the arctic start to 2009, as workers return to work on icy and snowy roads. The paper warns drivers to expect 'hellish' conditions as temperatures plunge to as low as -6C.
The Sun

More gloom predicted for US car industry
The Financial Times predicts more dismal news for the US car industry when manufacturers report December sales. Industry experts estimate the car and light-truck market in December will be about 10 million units making it the worst month of an already disastrous year.
The Financial Times

If you have to take the bus
Taking the bus is never going to be the most pleasant experience, but if you have to rely on public transport, The Daily Telegraph has a guide to where you should sit. If you want to mingle with the bright go-getter passengers, then sit at the front of the top deck and you can avoid the rebellious types by steering clear of the rear. Other top spots for social groups include seats by the driver for 'meeters and greeters', while risk-takers can be found to the rear of the lower deck.
The Daily Telegraph

Naughty road names banned
Hoare Road, Lady Gardens and 4 Corfe Close could all be addresses of the past, according to The Sun. The paper reports on Lewes Council's 'barmy' plan to ban road names that are naughty or open to innuendo. The paper has a quote from a resident of the town's Cockshut Road saying any such ban would be a 'pity'.
The Sun

New theory on death of racing champ
The Daily Mail prepares to mark the 50th anniversary of the death of Britain's first Formula One champion, Mike Hawthorn, with a new theory on the circumstances of his death. The paper reports that Hawthorn, who was killed when his Jaguar hit a tree on the A3 in Surrey, was actually goaded into racing a friend named as Rob Walker. One of Hawthorn's mechanics claims that Walker drove past their garage and waved a winners salute from his Mercedes. Hawthorn took this as a challenge and roared off after him and to his death.
Daily Mail