Prime Minister Andy Burnham has introduced an immediate measure to help motorists struggling with record-high fuel prices, allowing them to compare petrol and diesel costs on Google Maps from today. The announcement comes after he previously told drivers they would have to "wait until the budget" to find out whether fuel duty will be cut.
The RAC motoring group said on October 2 that average diesel prices were at their highest ever at £2 a litre. In response to the rising costs, Burnham said he was introducing the new tool to help struggling Brits.
Prime Minister's announcement
Writing on X, Burnham said: "I won't accept that there's nothing I can do to help. I know people are worried about fuel prices. And I get it. You get to the pump, watch the numbers climb, and wonder why it's costing so much more than it used to."
He added: "The reality is that global events are pushing up costs, and families here at home are feeling the impact."
"That's why from today, you'll be able to see petrol and diesel prices on Google Maps, compare nearby stations and find the cheapest option before you fill up. It's a small change, but if there's a practical way to help people keep more money in their pocket, I'll do it."
RAC warning on record prices
Speaking ahead of the Labour Party's conference in Liverpool, RAC's head of policy Simon Williams predicted that "the record of 199.09p will almost certainly be surpassed".
"Sadly for drivers, there appears to be no end in sight to high prices at the pumps as the cost of a barrel of oil hit 106 dollars (£79), having been around that 100 dollar (£75) mark for the last two weeks," Mr Williams said.
When questioned whether diesel prices exceeding £2 per litre were "acceptable", the Prime Minister responded that the rise was "barely in" the UK Government's control. "Obviously, it's driven by world events and the supply of fuel or the restriction on the supply of fuel in the Middle East," he pointed out.
Upcoming budget
Chancellor John Healey is set to deliver his inaugural Budget on 28 October.
