Fuel plans win industry backing

An SNP proposal which would see the introduction of a Fuel Duty Regulator, to provide relief for motorists and industry from soaring fuel prices, has received cross-industry backing in advance of a vote in the House of Commons next week.

The SNP amendment to the Finance Bill has secured backing  from the Road Haulage Association (RHA), National Farmers Union Scotland (NFUS), Scottish Taxi Federation (STF), Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF), and Federation of Small Businesses (FSB).

Mr Hosie said:

"I am delighted that our amendment has secured cross-industry support, and clearly this level of backing underlines the urgency and strength of feeling for action on fuel prices.

"Cross-industry backing for a regulator is mounting outside parliament, and next week we must secure cross-party support in the lobby’s.

"Whilst the Treasury rakes in an additional £6 billion in revenue from rising prices, Scotland’s hard-pressed motorists and key industries face real pain at the pumps.

"I think everyone realises that something must be done, and a fuel duty regulator is a common sense and simple measure that would make an enormous difference.

"It is ridiculous that in an oil rich country like Scotland key sectors are struggling to fill their tanks.

"I welcome this cross-industry support for our proposal, and urge all parties to support Scottish industry and to back the Fuel Duty Regulator in Parliament next week."