Petrol and Diesel Ban Delay Sparks Industry Uproar
Motoring Boss Sounds Alarm
Ministers are mulling a five-year delay to the 2030 ban on new petrol and diesel car sales, pushing it back to 2035. Mike Hawes, chief of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), warns this move will confuse consumers and stall the electric car revolution. “A delay sends a mixed message that could kill momentum for EV adoption,” Hawes said.
Driver Groups Welcome the Setback
Not everyone is fussed. Campaign group Fair Fuel UK cheered the possible postponement. They claim the switch is too costly and was always doomed to be scrapped. Their stance is clear: the ban’s benefits won’t justify the price drivers will pay.
Inflation Dips Despite Fuel Jitters
In surprising news, UK inflation slowed to 6.7% in August, down from 6.8% the previous month—the lowest rate in 18 months. This marks three straight months of easing inflation. The drop was driven by cheaper milk, cheese, eggs, and veg, despite rising bread and cereal prices. Falling airfares and accommodation costs also helped. Experts expected inflation to climb due to high oil prices, but food price cooling has provided a breather.
China Slaps Ban on Japanese Seafood Amid Fukushima Fallout
China’s seafood imports from Japan plunged by a staggering 67.6% in August year-on-year. The drop follows Japan’s controversial release of treated Fukushima nuclear wastewater, which began on August 24 and will continue for three decades. China retaliated swiftly, banning all Japanese seafood imports, delivering a big blow to trade ties.
London Tube Facing Major Strike Disruption
Thousands of London Underground workers are set to strike on October 4 and 6. The Rail, Maritime and Transport Union (RMT) is protesting job cuts and safety concerns affecting more than 3,500 members. Expect chaos on the Tube, with widespread service disruptions looming during the walkouts.
