BUYING British is still a realistic option for fleet managers following Nissan's decision to continue Micra production in Sunderland. But with a few exceptions, most fleet managers feel patriotism is not as important as getting a good deal.

Julie Cox, of fleet management company Lisles MH, which manages Du Pont's 500-car fleet of mainly Vauxhalls, Fords and Rovers, said it would not affect her decision-making. She said: 'We wouldn't buy Nissan as a result of this decision.' Jackie Hammond, car fleet manager at P&O, said drivers of the company's 180-car fleet had an open choice in terms of manufacturers. Julian Plews, company secretary of Leicestershire-based home and garden products specialist Vitax, said it would not alter the firm's strategy, although 45 of its 70-car fleet are Nissan Primeras.

However, Plews said: 'It doesn't matter to us where cars are produced, as long as they are available through dealers in the UK.' But Jane Perris, transport and communications manager of Cornwall Healthcare NHS Trust, said she felt the decision would alter the fleet's decision-making process. The trust has an 800-vehicle fleet comprising Nissan Almeras and Micras, as well as Vauxhalls. She said: 'It would encourage us to stay with Nissan.'