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| Alex Neil: "Scrap Duty Increase and Start Fuel Regulator" | |
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Airdrie and Shotts MSP Alex Neil has called for the scrapping of the 3 pence rise in fuel duty and the introduction of a fuel duty regulator after the latest figures released by the European Commission showed UK fuel tax was approaching 60 per cent of the cost of fuel. The proportion of tax levied on fuel by the UK Treasury is the highest amongst all EU members at 58.6% for unleaded and 56.8% for diesel. The SNP has called on the UK Government to recognise how its road fuel taxes are impacting on the transport industry, including bus services and fares, as well as hauliers and households. Alex Neil said: “The UK Government needs to end this rise that is choking back economic recovery. Local families and businesses in Airdrie and Shotts are suffering from the current fuel prices and need some relief. “Excuses that it would be too difficult to introduce a regulatory mechanism are wearing thin. Germany has now become the third European country after Austria and Denmark to sign up to price regulation. “The SNP is leading calls at Westminster for the 3p rise in duty to be scrapped. We will also be tabling amendments to the budget to bring in a fuel duty regulator. If Scotland had control of fuel duty, the SNP government would introduce a fuel duty regulator to lower prices now. “We will be doing all we can to push the UK Government to scrap the 3p rise and introduce a fuel duty regulator to help ease the burden of fuel prices for the people of Airdrie and Shotts.” ENDS |
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