Cross-party group fights Government fuel duty increase

So far 28 MPs have agreed to support a proposed clause, drafted by the SNP, which would amend the Budget and cancel the rise in fuel duty.

The campaign, which is backed by FairFuelUK, is being led by the SNP.

The party said that the clause will be tabled at the earliest opportunity, when the Finance Bill has completed its committee stage, expected in late June.

SNP Treasury spokesperson Stewart Hosie said: “The level of cross-party support for this clause is astonishing and reflects the mood across the country that fuel prices must be brought under control.”

He added: “The lack of action on fuel prices was one of the biggest issues missing in the Chancellor’s Budget. High costs of fuel aren’t just hurting the pockets of hard-pressed householders across the UK, they are hammering businesses and hampering economic recovery.

“In the long term a fuel duty regulator would help protect from volatile fuel prices but in the short term we can take immediate action by scrapping the further 3p rise.

“We already have the highest rates of taxes on petrol and diesel in Europe - it’s time to end this highway robbery and call a halt to further rises which will hamper economic recovery.”

The MPs backing the clause come from nine political parties with one independent.

Quentin Willson, national spokesman for FairFuelUK said: “Now’s the time to show that Parliament really can join together and stand up for the greater good.

“The cost of fuel is one of this country’s most pressing social issues. We’re calling on all MPs to show the hard-working people and businesses of Britain that they understand and care about this vital issue.”