Andy Burnham has been criticised over “unbelievable” comments about soaring fuel prices, as petrol and diesel costs continue to climb into October. Diesel rates have reached an all-time high, with prices now exceeding £2 per litre, putting pressure on families and prompting campaigners to demand immediate action from politicians.
Pressure grows for fuel duty cut
The AA and FairFuelUK are among those calling for fuel duty cuts, although the legal default is for fees to rise from January 1 as part of a reversal of the Conservatives’ 5p cut. However, Mr Burnham has not cut fuel duty rates or VAT fees, instead rolling out updates to Google Maps.
On Tuesday, Mr Burnham issued a rare update on fuel prices, posting: “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.
“The reality is that global events are pushing up costs, and families here at home are feeling the impact. But I won't accept that there's nothing I can do to help.
“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.”
Campaigner hits back at PM
Campaigner James Melville hit back at the decision, calling out the PM for failing to do more for families already struggling at the pumps. He replied: “This is actually taking the p***. Instead of doing something meaningful to help motorists like cutting fuel duty, the Prime Minister patronises British motorists by telling them to click on Google Maps to find the cheapest local prices for diesel and petrol. Unbelievable.”
However, the war of words continued, with Mr Burnham later adding that his cabinet would make the “basics better for people long-term”. He added: “I know this isn’t a silver bullet. It might help some people find cheaper fuel, but it doesn’t mean that’s all we’re doing to help people with the cost of living.
“We’re cutting VAT on electricity bills. Capping bus fares at £2 in England. Giving disabled people 24/7 free bus travel. Making it easier to cancel subscriptions. Cutting business rates for pubs, clubs and music venues. Stopping schools from demanding endless expensive branded uniforms. Ensuring if your train is cancelled, you can use your ticket on other operators free of charge. Fuel duty is staying frozen to the end of the year. Yes, on their own, I accept that these things don’t seem like much when people’s lives have gotten harder. There’s a lot still to do.”
