The Government understands the effect that rising price of both domestic and motor fuel are having on the people and businesses of the United Kingdom. As well as the direct increase in fuel the rising costs are also impacting on other areas of life including food prices and increased holiday costs.  As your local MP I am asking the Government to make it a priority that these increases are addressed at both a national and international level, because due to the global economy, issues in other countries have a direct effect on domestic prices. 

The Prime Minister has introduced a range of policies to address the rising fuel prices, both in the short and long term. These include increasing the supply of oil, encouraging investment in both nuclear and green power, postponing increases in fuel duty to October 2008 and assisting the most vulnerable in society through winter fuel allowances and warm front programmes.  

The budget increased duty on fuel.  However to ensure pressure on businesses and individuals is reduced the government have postponed the introduction of fuel duty until October.  Prior to any changes in October full consideration will be given to economic factors. Winter fuel payments are also a method used by the government to protect those who need to be warm but who are worried about rising fuel costs. An additional one off winter fuel payment of £50 is being made to households over 60’s which is increased to £100 to those who are over 80. In April 2008 John Hutton MP brokered a deal with the 6 largest energy companies in the UK.  They agreed to increase their collective annual spending on social assistance programmes by 225 million over the next 3 years.  The money will be spent on avoiding fuel poverty for the most vulnerable in society.

I will continue to work with Ministers to ensure that the impact of global conditions are meliorated as best possible. I want working people, particularly those on low incomes, to continue to receive support and I know that this support would not be available under a Tory Government.