The carmaker said that although the vast majority of parts for its UK plants are sourced from Europe, some do come from Japan, which has led to supply issues.

As a result, it is to halve production from 11 April until the end of the month. Staff will still be paid under its flexible working policy and it said that it would quickly make up for the reduced volume production using the banked hours once full production is resumed.

Honda added that it will quickly develop a production schedule to meet the needs of its European customers.

Ken Keir, executive vice president, Honda Motor Europe, said: 'We’ve taken the decision to reduce our production volumes at HUM as it enables us to continue with our manufacturing activities, thus minimising the impact on Honda customers, dealers and Associates. We appreciate everyone’s understanding, customers and dealers, during these challenging times.'

Honda suspended car production at its plants in Japan following the earthquake but announced last week that it is to resume production at its Suzuka and Sayama factories in Japan from 11 April, with production and shipment of component parts resuming this week.

However, it said that parts supply situation remains unstable and that production of component parts and vehicles at Honda plants is resuming at approximately 50% of the original production plan.