The industry blames cheap Chinese imports for a collapse in steel prices.
Prime Minister David Cameron has pledged to raise the issue with China's President Xi Jinping during his state visit to the UK. There has been widespread criticism of China for allegedly dumping cheap steel on the UK market.
Commenting on Tata’s announcement today, Gareth Stace (pictured), director of UK Steel, said: “Our fears about further job losses have now been confirmed. If we are to stem this tide then the Business Secretary must now deliver as a matter of urgency the commitments he made at last week’s summit, on energy costs, Business Rates costs and tackling unfair trade.
“In addition, we must also see a commitment from all parts of government at the highest level to ensure the sector’s survival in the UK.”
He added: “The Prime Minister can demonstrate that he is prepared to lead this commitment by stepping in this week and pressing the Chinese premier about the dumping of under-priced steel which is one of the major factors killing our industry.”