A Reform UK fuel tax protest in Westminster has drawn minimal support, with only two branded vehicles – a double-decker bus and a taxi – attending the Monday morning demonstration. A lone pedestrian was also seen waiting for the event to begin.
AI-generated advert contrasts with reality
The party had promoted the protest with an AI-generated social media advert depicting dozens of vehicles, including tractors, lorries, and vans, gathered in the shadow of the Houses of Parliament. However, the actual turnout fell far short of that image.
Jenrick calls for fuel duty cut
Reform UK Treasury spokesman Robert Jenrick, who arrived on the bus after it struggled to find parking near the Treasury, told reporters: “We’ve been driving around central London, talking to punters, and people have been hooting their horns in support.” He urged Chancellor Rachel Reeves to “do something now to help our hard-pressed motorists,” noting that chancellors in Australia, Germany, Sweden, Spain, and Ireland are acting to reduce fuel costs.
Jenrick highlighted that 55% of petrol costs are tax, saying: “Rachel Reeves is raking it in. We’re asking her to help working people.” Reform UK is calling for an emergency cut to fuel duty and opposes the planned September increase.
Pump prices have surged since the Middle East conflict began on February 28, due to Iran’s control over tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. Average petrol and diesel prices remain about 25p and 49p higher per litre than before the war, despite a slight recent drop.
Fuel price protests in the Republic of Ireland earlier this month caused major disruption, including blocked motorways and depots, with similar demonstrations in Northern Ireland.
