In response to new data showing that the average cost of filling a 55-litre family car has now surpassed £100, RAC fuel spokesperson Simon Williams stated:
“It’s a truly dark day for drivers today, with petrol now crossing the depressing £100 per tank (£100.27p) mark.” A full tank of diesel now costs £103.43.
“With average prices so high – 182.31p for a litre of unleaded and 188.05p for diesel – upward inflationary pressure is almost certain, which is bad news for everyone.”
While fuel prices continue to set new records on a daily basis, households across the country may never have expected the cost of filling an average-sized family car to reach three figures.” With RAC research indicating that up to eight-in-ten people rely on their cars, many people must be wondering if the government will provide any additional financial assistance. The 5p fuel duty cut implemented in March now appears insignificant, as wholesale petrol prices have risen by five times that amount since the Spring Statement (25p). A further reduction in duty or a temporary reduction in VAT would go a long way toward assisting drivers, particularly those on lower incomes who have no choice but to drive.
It’s also worth noting that the government continues to profit from high fuel prices by collecting around 30p in VAT on every litre sold.” This compares to just 25p prior to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Furthermore, the government continues to collect 53p in fuel duty per litre.
Also on Wednesday, the average price of a litre of unleaded at a supermarket increased by 2.5p to 175.91p, while diesel increased by nearly 2p to 184.13p.” Other supermarkets raised their prices yesterday, as expected, in response to Asda’s increase.
