News / Cheaper fuel on its way
THE HIGHER than average petrol and diesel prices in the northern isles are set to be reduced by five pence per litre after the European Union approved a UK bid for a fuel duty derogation.
The long awaited decision by Brussels opens the way towards slightly fairer fuel prices.
The difference at the pumps between the central belt of Scotland and Shetland has been as high as 20p per litre over recent months.
The news was welcomed by isles MP Alistair Carmichael, who was one of the driving forces behind the initiative.
“This is the single most important step on the road towards reducing the cost of petrol and diesel in the isles.
“I am delighted that we have got this consent and hope that the remaining hoops will be a formality to jump through,” the government’s deputy chief whip said.
Shetland MSP Tavish Scott added: “Last week, Shetland motorists endured a 4p rise in one day at some Island petrol stations. The difference between us and the mainland of Scotland is 20p.
“Alistair Carmichael deserves credit for pushing this derogation so hard in the UK Government and it will help.
“Shetland also needs a full inquiry into the monopoly that GB Fuels operates and the consequences of that on local prices. That is the next stage, and we need that action which recognises that the car is a necessity of life and not a luxury in the northern isles.”
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