A Tata Steel spokesperson said: “Tata Steel is continuing to discuss with the UK government a framework for continuity and decarbonisation of Steel making in the UK amidst very challenging underlying business conditions given that several of its heavy end assets are approaching end of life.

"Given the financially constrained position of our UK business, any significant change is only possible with government investment and support, as also seen in other steel making countries in Europe where governments are actively supporting companies in de-carbonisation initiatives."