Fuel Supply Crisis ending In Parts Of UK – Association

UK’s Petrol Retailers Association says the fuel supply crisis is virtually at an end in parts of the UK, but said problems persist in London and the South East.

The group added there has been no overall improvement in the crisis in the last 24 hours. However, issues with getting fuel were “virtually at an end” in Scotland, the North and the Midlands, where only 6% of filling stations are empty.

In London and the South East, 22% of filling stations were dry, and 60% had both grades of fuel available.

Overall, 17% of petrol stations remain empty in the UK, while 67% have both grades of fuel available, the group said.

From 4 October, army tanker drivers are to start delivering fuel to petrol stations in an emergency move prompted by the continuing crisis at the pumps.

Almost 200 soldiers – including 100 drivers – have been training with haulage firms this week, learning how to fill up tankers and petrol pumps, and the first army deliveries will be made early on Monday morning.

Announcing the move, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “While the situation is stabilising, our armed forces are there to fill in any critical vacancies and help keep the country on the move by supporting the industry to deliver fuel to forecourts.”

Brian Madderson, PRA chairman, said: “The fuel is still not going to the pumps that need it most in London and the South East.

Madderson added that the PRA is “disappointed that no concerted action is being taken” to address the supply problems in London and the South East.