Major legislation change means drivers should not replenish gasoline tanks this week
Motorists are being urged to delay filling up their petrol tanks due to a forthcoming law change that could potentially save their hard earned cash. The UK Government has introduced new legislation aimed at monitoring any discrepancies in pricing at petrol and diesel stations. This move comes as drivers grapple with skyrocketing fuel prices.
In light of the current situation where the UK reportedly boasts the highest diesel prices in Europe and one of the highest petrol prices, according to RAC breakdown experts, this action is deemed crucial. The recently implemented Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act could slash prices and curb price gouging activities by retailers with high margins on refuelling, reports Stoke on Trent Live.
At present, the average cost for a litre of petrol stands at 149p, while diesel is priced at 155p. Both prices significantly surpass the European averages, as reported by the Express.
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The new rules that began on May 24 indicate that the Act will further empower the CMA to keep a keen eye on road fuel prices and flag any misconduct to the government. This could signify a decrease in costs once the law fully kicks in; a suggestion implying you might want to hold off that refill till prices likely drop.
Highlighting the changes, an RAC spokesperson pointed out: “We can see no good reason why retailers in Great Britain aren’t cutting their prices at the pumps. It’s important to note that in Northern Ireland, where there is greater competition for fuels in the absence of supermarket dominance, the average price of diesel is just 144.9p – 10p less than the UK average, and petrol is 6p cheaper at 142.4p.”
“There is cause for hope for fairer fuel prices in the future as the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act became law on Friday, giving new powers to the Competition and Markets Authority to closely monitor road fuel prices and report any sign of malpractice to the Government.”
This news arrives as tanker drivers supplying garage forecourts and aviation fuel are set to strike over pay issues. Unionised employees based at the Stanlow oil refinery have planned walk-outs from June 6 to 8 and 13 to 15, as announced by Unite. They anticipate this will impact deliveries.
Drivers employed by Hoyer, recently rebranded as Oxalis, have claimed that their pay offer is significantly lower than that of their colleagues in other parts of the country. The company has assured that it has contingency plans in place to ensure its operations continue.
