Record hike in price of petrol

Scotland found most expensive for diesel

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THE price of petrol and diesel at UK pumps rose by record margins over the last month, according to figures out today.

And the figures come following an end to the four-day strike action by tanker drivers in a dispute over pay.

The AA’s Fuel Price Report for June disclosed that average petrol prices soared by 5.61p per litre between mid May and mid June, while diesel shot up 7.39p.

The average cost of petrol in the UK is now 118.16p per litre. Diesel stands at 131.56p per litre.

Scotland and the South-west of England were the most expensive areas for diesel, with London and the South-east of England the worst hit for petrol.

But during the four days of strike action by tanker drivers, the areas worse hit by fuel shortages failed to show any significant price premium.

The risk of further action was averted last night at the end of all-day talks between leaders of the Unite union and managers from haulage firms Hoyer and Suckling Transport.

Hundreds of drivers went on strike, leading countrywide to fuel shortages mainly at Shell garages

A brief statement said: “Hoyer, Suckling and Unite are pleased to confirm that they have successfully concluded pay talks.”

Following the meeting at the union’s headquarters in London, Unite will recommend a new pay deal to its drivers, details of which were being kept secret.

Drivers will now be balloted over the coming week, with a recommendation to accept.

In the meantime, all industrial action has been called off, including a ban on overtime.

Business Secretary John Hutton said: “Restocking at the pumps is now under way and we can expect things to return to normal over the next few days.”