Motorists have been warned against panic buying after reports of fuel shortages at several UK petrol stations amid rising prices caused by the war in Iran. Some stations in Derby, Cobham, and Monkseaton have run out of fuel, with others in Bridgwater, Bamber Bridge, and Worcester also affected.
Petrol prices have exceeded 150p per litre for the first time in nearly two years, rising by over 17p since the start of the Iran war on 28 February, according to the RAC. Diesel has increased by 34.3p to an average of 176.66p per litre. Barclays reported a 10.9 per cent spike in fuel spending in the first week of the conflict.
Ministers have assured the public that Britain’s fuel supplies remain stable, but disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz, through which about a fifth of global oil passes, continue to impact markets. The boss of Shell warned that Europe will begin experiencing fuel shortages in the coming weeks, while Asda's chief executive acknowledged “temporary shortages” at some pumps due to elevated demand.
Asda stated that all forecourts are receiving normal deliveries and that any empty pumps are being refilled quickly. The Petrol Retailers Association and Fuels Industry UK issued a joint statement saying supply is flowing normally and there is no need for changes in buying habits.
Despite these assurances, the UK’s diesel supply is considered more vulnerable to disruption. Chancellor Rachel Reeves warned against profiteering and said the economic challenges could be “significant”. With no sign of an imminent end to the war, families planning Easter getaways face higher prices.
