Over 40 groups interested in Coryton refinery

Administrators PwC announced earlier this week that it had acquired a cargo of oil which will allow refining work to continue, providing a "breathing space" for the refinery.

Energy Minister Charles Hendry chaired a meeting of politicians, business officials and unions to discuss the future of the refinery. The minister said: "We have had another positive meeting at which the joint administrators updated those present on what they have achieved so far and their planned next steps. I welcome the progress that the administrators have made. The deal that allowed petrol and diesel to be delivered to forecourts from the refinery was a crucial boost, while the crude oil delivery acquired was important to maintaining refining operations.”

The Energy Minister added: "There are critical issues to be resolved in the coming weeks. For the long term, I understand there have been over 40 expressions of interest in Coryton from companies around the world, which is extremely encouraging. Work will now focus on securing a sustainable long-term future for the refinery."

The site, which supplies 20% of fuel in London and the South East, halted sales after its Swiss owner, Petroplus, placed the refinery in administration, prompting fears of up to 1,000 job losses.