Andy Burnham has been called upon to introduce a 10p per litre fuel duty cut, which could save drivers £120 each, as the £2 bus fare cap is reinstated. Bobby Dean, the Liberal Democrats' transport spokesperson, welcomed the amendment to the current £3 cap but argued that more needs to be done.
Liberal Democrats Push for Further Measures
Bobby Dean, MP for Carshalton and Wallington, expressed relief that the £2 cap was being reintroduced, stating it was the right decision. However, he claimed the government was "still leaving millions behind" and urged the Prime Minister to deliver for the entire country. Dean emphasized that bus routes are essential for economic activity in communities across the nation and warned against neglecting rural areas with limited or no bus services.
Dean said: "Burnham should now look at our emergency measures to ease costs that have soared due to Trump's illegal war in Iran - capping national bus fares at £1, slashing rail prices by 10 per cent, and cutting fuel duty by 10p per litre."
Potential Impact of Fuel Duty Cut
A 10p fuel duty cut would bring fuel prices down to levels last seen in mid-March, just two weeks into the Iran war. The government had previously announced in May that the 5p cut on fuel duty would be extended for the rest of the year. By the end of this year, the cut is expected to have saved the average driver £120 since 2025, ensuring fuel duty on petrol and diesel remains at its lowest rate for over 16 years.
At the time of the extension, Prime Minister Keir Starmer acknowledged the pressure of energy and fuel costs, particularly due to the conflict in Iran. He stated: "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. 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."
Chancellor's Support for Drivers
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves also supported the measure, saying: "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. The war in Iran is pushing up fuel prices here at home but after strong growth at the beginning of the year, I am stepping in to protect people at the pump. By protecting households and businesses we are building a stronger and more secure economy for Britain. That is the right economic plan."
