The fear of fuel rationing has grown as the conflict in the Middle East continues – and there is a chance UK drivers may face fuel rationing
There may be a limit put on the pumps in the UK (Image: Getty)
The UK government is reviewing emergency petrol and diesel rationing plans in preparation for a potential supply crises, according to reports. These plans could include a £30 fuel purchase limit and priority access for essential services like the NHS and police.
The fear of fuel rationing has grown as the conflict in the Middle East continues. Iran has blocked the critical Strait of Hormuz supply route, through which about one fifth of global oil traded passes, and energy infrastructure across the region has been targeted amid the ongoing conflict.
The conflict sparked after the US and Israel carried out joint strikes on several key Iranian sites on February 28. Iran responded by hitting targets across the Middle East.
A £30 fuel limit may be imposed by individual petrol stations during periods of panic buying or supply shortages to manage demand and prevent pumps from running dry. It is not a permanent, nationwide law.
Such limits were used during the 2021 fuel shortages to ensure more drivers could access fuel.
These restrictions are decided by retailers, not by the government, though government officials may encourage them.
UK officials have stressed that the move is precautionary and not a sign of imminent shortages, according to automotive technology firm Regit.
According to Regit, asked whether the government was considering implementing fuel rationing, Labour MP Dan Tomlinson said: “At the moment, it is too early to tell what the impact of this crisis will be in the coming months.”
“What we have seen in the last two weeks is that there has been sharp increase in the cost of oil used to heat people’s homes, and the Government has stepped in and said we’re going to provide £50 million of support for people across the UK who are reliant on heating oil.”
“We will monitor the situation, and we’ll monitor it carefully.”
Regit reported that the government has confirmed it is reviewing its national fuel emergency plans, designed to protect essential services if a major fuel shortage were ever to occur.
The move would help to ensure the UK can respond quickly if global supply chains are disrupted further.
Diesel has reached 160.3p per litre and unleaded sits at 141.5p. These are the highest levels in about 18 months.