Drivers have been dealt a cruel fuel blow with petrol and diesel prices no longer falling. On Tuesday, pump prices for petrol and diesel held at 150.7 and 165.2p a litre respectively.
AA Warns of Ominous Plateau
“This is news UK drivers didn’t want to hear ahead of the summer getaway later in the month. The ending of the ceasefire is ominous for UK pump prices but not all is lost,” says Luke Bosdet, the AA’s spokesman on pump prices.
It comes as petrol stations across the UK are flouting legal obligations to update live fuel prices, undermining a government initiative designed to help motorists save money.
Fuel Finder Compliance Concerns
An investigation by the Press Association, analysing data submitted to the 'Fuel Finder' system – which feeds third-party comparison apps – reveals significant non-compliance. Simon Williams of the RAC said it is “not plausible that so many haven’t changed prices in a week, let alone a month”, adding that “most retailers receive new fuel supply at least once a week”.
Mr Williams said: “Fuel Finder was introduced to help stop drivers paying over the odds when they fill up, so these findings are very concerning. It’s vital that all retailers follow the rules by recording price changes within half an hour. Steps must be taken to ensure those not reporting prices begin doing so immediately.”
CMA Enforcement Powers
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has the power to take enforcement action against retailers not meeting the requirements of Fuel Finder. A spokesperson for the Labour Party government's Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said: “The majority of petrol stations are inputting data to Fuel Finder promptly, helping consumers across the country find the cheapest fuel in their area. The Competition and Markets Authority has the power to take action against any forecourt not signed up or reporting prices. Fuel Finder plays a crucial part in our work to tackle the cost of living head on, with savings for households who own a car of around £40 a year at the pump.”
