Another virus, Hepatitis B, is responsible for a small percentage of primary liver cancer in the UK but is a more common cause of primary liver cancer worldwide.
Cancer Research UK is supporting a number of research projects including clinical trials to improve the treatment of primary liver cancer.
Dr Lesley Walker, Cancer Research UK's director of cancer information, said: "While this increase is a concern, it is important for people to understand how their risk of liver cancer can be reduced by changes to lifestyle.
"Cutting down on alcohol and watching your weight will help to reduce the risk of a wide range of cancers including primary liver cancer. Taking plenty of exercise and eating a balanced diet high in fibre, fruit and vegetables and low in fatty foods, red and processed meat can all help towards keeping a healthy weight."
Source: Cancer Research UK