UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has recalled Parliament from its Easter break for a Saturday sitting to discuss the future of British Steel, Kallanish learns.

In recent days media reports have suggested raw material shipments had been stopped to the steelmaker, with the government reportedly preparing to step in and buy these in order to keep the blast furnaces running. However, the owner of British Steel is believed to have rejected this offer, with the government now looking to step in, as talks have not resulted in an agreement, including on the government’s earlier offer of state aid.

The government has in recent days said the nationalisation of the company is one of the options on the table.

It is believed that Saturday’s meeting will see legislation discussed and voted on by members of parliament, which would allow the government to take control of the steelworks in order to keep the blast furnaces going. This would be before a more long-term solution could be agreed upon, which could include nationalisation.

UK Steel director general Gareth Stace said on Friday: “Recalling Parliament is the right decision to ensure that British Steel, the wider steel sector and thousands of steel workers and their families are given the certainty they deserve in trying times."

“It is welcome news that Government recognises the seriousness of the UK’s steel industry circumstances and the essential contribution our sector makes to the national economy and security, as well as the communities that rely on it," he added.