UK government promises to do utmost to help British Steel

Britain's government pledged Tuesday to do its utmost to support British Steel amid reports the company is facing bankruptcy.

Some 5,000 workers are employed by the company with another 20,000 jobs in the supply chain. Business minister Andrew Stephenson told the House of Commons that the government would do everything possible to support the industry.

The company has asked for a package of support to tackle issues related to Britain's pending departure from the European Union.

British Steel said negotiations on the company's future are ongoing and that "we continue to work with all parties to achieve an outcome that secures the future success of British Steel."

"We are aware of speculation that the May salaries may not be paid," British Steel said. "For the avoidance of doubt, we can confirm that funding is in place and British Steel employees will be paid their salaries in full." The Unite union called for the government to nationalize the business, while the Community union urged ..