Fuel Prices Edge Up as Summer Holidays Approach
The AA has issued a warning to British motorists that pump prices are rising again, just as an estimated 14.1 million drivers prepare to travel this weekend. On Monday, the average price of petrol increased from 150.7p to 151.0p per litre, while diesel rose from 164.8p to 164.9p per litre.
Wholesale Costs Drive Increases
The motoring organisation attributes the price uptick to a 3p-to-4p-per-litre rise in wholesale petrol costs since the last week of June. Wholesale diesel costs have jumped by more than 6p per litre. Experts blame the renewed US-Iran conflict for pushing oil prices higher.
Regional Variations and Comparisons
According to AA research, only two regions—the North East and Yorkshire and Humberside—are selling petrol below the national average of 150p per litre. Despite recent slight declines, prices remain significantly higher than last summer.
RAC analysis shows that filling a 55-litre family car with petrol now costs £8.90 more than a year ago. Diesel drivers face an even steeper increase, paying £12.20 more per tank compared to last summer.
Spokesman Comments on the Situation
Luke Bosdet, The AA's spokesman on pump prices, said: "Despite more than a penny coming off the average price of petrol over the past fortnight, drivers across the UK now face new increases heading towards the start of the summer holidays. And it’s always in the back of people’s minds that current pump prices would be 6p a litre worse were it not for the fuel duty cut (5p fuel duty + 1p VAT)."
Historical Context and Future Outlook
Fuel costs soared earlier this year, with petrol reaching 158p per litre in April and diesel peaking at 191p per litre. RAC Fuel Watch data indicates that petrol is still 18.1p per litre higher than in February, while diesel is 22.3p higher. Despite the higher costs, a surge in travel is expected this weekend as Britons begin their summer holidays.
