Fresh fears of a renewed war on motorists are mounting as explosive Treasury documents reveal Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is considering ending the decade-long fuel duty freeze.
The Treasury's Revenue Gambit
Internal government analysis, seen by Whitehall insiders, shows the Treasury is actively exploring options to increase revenue from drivers. The thirteen-year freeze on fuel duty, a cherished policy that has saved the average driver hundreds of pounds annually, now hangs in the balance.
Officials have presented the Chancellor with stark calculations showing the massive financial impact of maintaining the current freeze. With each year of frozen duty costing the Treasury approximately £5 billion in lost revenue, the pressure to end the popular policy is intensifying.
Motorist Backlash Looms
The potential move has sparked alarm among motoring groups and Conservative backbenchers who warn of devastating consequences for families and businesses already grappling with the ongoing cost of living crisis.
"This would represent a declaration of war on the British motorist," one senior Tory MP warned. "After years of promising to keep costs down, slamming drivers with massive fuel price hikes would be political suicide."
Economic Pressures Mount
The Treasury's dilemma highlights the increasingly difficult balancing act facing the government. While maintaining the freeze has been a key Conservative manifesto commitment, the growing black hole in public finances is forcing difficult choices.
Industry experts predict that ending the freeze could add nearly 15p per litre to petrol and diesel prices, pushing the cost of filling a typical family car beyond £100 for many drivers.
What Happens Next?
All eyes are now on the Chancellor's autumn financial statement, where he must decide between:
- Maintaining the freeze and finding billions in alternative savings
- Ending the policy and facing the wrath of millions of drivers
- Seeking a compromise with a smaller, phased increase
The decision is expected to define the government's relationship with motorists for years to come and could become a major flashpoint in the run-up to the next general election.
