UK gas prices rose 37% to 400p/Sam on October 6th, setting a record for wholesale gas prices.

Industry figures point to high demand for gas and reduced supplies as reasons for the surge in wholesale prices. Industry insiders are calling on the government to help businesses and industries stay afloat.

The UK's energy-intensive Users' group, which represents steel, chemical and fertiliser companies, said soaring costs had caused steel production to halt "at times of peak demand".

In the past few weeks, high wholesale gas prices have led to the closure of several UK energy companies and shutdowns in several industries.