Prime Minister Andy Burnham is facing mounting pressure to reconsider his stance on fuel duty, with campaign group FairFuelUK calling on the Labour leader to follow Italy's example and offer relief to motorists. Howard Cox, founder of the leading campaign group, has publicly slammed the government's inaction, warning that the current approach is "anti-driver" and risks hindering economic recovery.
No Update on Fuel Duty Since Becoming PM
Since assuming office, Burnham has not issued any update on fuel duty, leaving the existing 5p cut—extended only until the end of the year by former Chancellor Rachel Reeves—as the sole measure in place. This lack of action has drawn sharp criticism from Cox, who argues that the government is deliberately ignoring the needs of drivers and businesses.
"This fiscally short-sighted Government, under Andy Burnham, and following Keir Starmer's tenure, continues to show a deliberate reluctance to support drivers or ease business transport costs by cutting fuel duty," Cox said. He highlighted that other European nations, including Italy, have recognized the critical role of fuel prices in containing inflation and supporting economic activity.
Labour Accused of Anti-Driver Stance
Cox's remarks underscore a broader frustration among motoring groups. "Why does Labour refuse to do the same? The answer is clear: in Labour's political DNA, the motorist remains an easy source of revenue rather than the commercial heartbeat of the economy," he added. The campaigner warned that the government's approach is "firmly anti-driver" and could hold back recovery, when targeted relief could benefit both households and businesses.
The criticism comes amid rising fuel prices, partly attributed to geopolitical tensions. In May, when announcing the extension of the 5p cut, then-Chancellor Rachel Reeves defended the decision, stating, "I'm keeping taxes down for drivers and businesses – putting money in the pockets of millions of workers and cutting costs for farmers and hauliers." She cited the war in Iran as a factor pushing up fuel prices but emphasized that the government was stepping in to protect people at the pump.
Previous Government's Defense
Then-Prime Minister Keir Starmer also defended the measure, acknowledging the pressure on households. "I know many are feeling the pressure of energy and fuel costs, and are worried about how the conflict in Iran will affect their finances. Because when global events drive up prices, it's working people who feel it first," he said. "That's why this government is stepping in to keep fuel costs down for millions of drivers and putting money back in the pockets of working people."
Despite these earlier assurances, FairFuelUK argues that the current administration, under Burnham and Chancellor John Healey, is failing to deliver on that promise. The group is now calling for a permanent reduction in fuel duty, pointing to Italy's recent moves as a model for the UK.
Impact on Motorists and Economy
The implications of the government's fuel duty policy are significant. With the 5p cut set to expire at year's end, drivers could face higher costs at the pump, potentially adding to inflationary pressures. Business groups have also warned that elevated fuel prices increase transport costs, which could ripple through supply chains and affect consumer prices.
FairFuelUK's campaign has gained traction among motorists and industry stakeholders, who see fuel duty as a key lever for economic stability. Cox's statement reflects a growing sentiment that the government must act decisively to support drivers, especially in light of global uncertainties.
As the debate intensifies, all eyes are on Burnham and Healey to see whether they will heed the calls for change or maintain their current course. The coming months will be crucial in determining the future of fuel duty policy in the UK.
