The price of diesel has surpassed £2 per litre at numerous fuelling stations across Scotland, sparking concern among hauliers and consumers alike. Rising fuel prices in Scotland’s islands have reached a peak, up to 50p more per litre compared to those in the central region’s supermarkets.
The increase in fuel prices is heavily felt by hauliers, with costs amounting to an additional £250 each week to fuel a single lorry. The RAC has forecasted a new record high diesel price in the UK, potentially hitting over the weekend due to the escalating costs of crude oil influenced by ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
An evaluation from BBC Scotland News highlighted that diesel prices over £2 per litre can be found at a minimum of 226 locations, extending from the Borders to Shetland. Some locations in island and rural regions have reported prices as high as 238.8p in the Hebrides and 209.0p in the Northern Isles.
Norman MacAskill, a haulier from South Uist, reflected on the change over his 40-year career, noting the jump from 32p per litre to £2.22 today, making monthly fuel bills untenable. His business, N D MacAskill & Son, which moves livestock to areas including Inverness and as far as the north of England, faces “devastating” fuel costs.
Similarly, Dave Neil of Sinclair Haulage in Orkney reports spending an additional £400 weekly on diesel compared to earlier this year, forcing him to implement a surcharge to customers. He highlights that the charge will be removed if fuel prices decrease.
The Call for Government Action
The Road Haulage Association (RHA) has urged the UK government to abandon planned fuel duty increases in early next year and to introduce a diesel rebate for essential service vehicles. With similar rebates in countries like Spain, France, and Italy, managing director Richard Smith argues the need for the UK to follow suit.
The National Farmers’ Union Scotland and other industry voices have expressed concern over rising fuel costs impacting agriculture, especially during the harvest. Crofter Amy Henderson, meanwhile, shares the personal impact, stating that fuel prices influence logistical decisions and her performance rates.
James Dunbar of New Start Highland, an Inverness-based charity, detailed the challenges faced due to fuel price hikes, as transport is vital for their operations. While transitioning to an electric fleet, they are currently feeling the pressure that these costs place on the families they assist.
Simon Williams of the RAC explained that the UK’s diesel prices are on the verge of overtaking previous records at an average of 198.32p per litre. This figure makes the UK the most expensive for diesel across Europe, surpassing Finland and the Netherlands by 12p. Petrol prices are also climbing, with September seeing a notable increase of nearly 12p.
The AA has been successful in persuading the government to establish a pump-price transparency system, allowing drivers access to real-time pricing for cheaper fuel options. The AA also advocates for the continuation of the Treasury’s 5p fuel duty reduction.
The UK government affirmed that the 5p duty cut will remain effective until 31 December, ensuring diesel remains 11p cheaper per litre this year than anticipated from previous government plans. A spokesperson emphasised the government’s commitment to alleviate the financial crisis caused by international conflicts on British citizens and businesses.
Reporting based on coverage first published by bbc.co.uk.