Record fuel prices across the UK are prompting concerns among individuals and businesses, particularly in the south of England. Diesel prices have reached an all-time high of 199.33p per litre, according to the RAC earlier this week. This represents an increase of just under 40% since the US-Israel conflict with Iran erupted at the end of February.
The rising costs are affecting various sectors. A small charity in Dorset, the MS Centre Dorset, faces an additional £2,000 annually to run its minibus service, which transports users across the county. Manager Diana Logan-Watts noted that these extra costs were not budgeted for, potentially impacting additional services like trips for members.
Businesses are also feeling the impact. A Southampton taxi driver, Neil McLean, expressed concern over the soaring costs, while David Price, who owns DCP Haulage, is considering parking trucks or downscaling due to an extra £250 per week in fuel costs per vehicle. A garage manager in Maidenhead, Ian Govier, has observed customers putting in smaller amounts of fuel, such as £10 or £20, instead of filling their tanks, and is also dealing with increased thefts, requiring investment in new camera systems.
The Chancellor, speaking at the Labour Party conference on Monday, acknowledged the difficulties families face with rising fuel costs. He stated that the government would address questions regarding these costs in the Budget, expected near the end of October.