CALLS for fuel duty in the Island to be slashed are showing no signs of fading – with one charity pushing for a 10p cut as “an immediate measure” to support Islanders with rising costs.
Caritas Jersey chief executive Patrick Lynch spoke to the JEP just a few days after the UK government announced its 5p cut on fuel duty will be extended for the rest of the year, as part of a “targeted package to keep taxes down and support people with the impact of war in Iran”.
Fuel costs have been significantly impacted by the conflict, which began in February and choked trade through the Strait of Hormuz.
The crucial shipping lanes would normally carry around a fifth of the world’s oil.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer 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.”
In March, Mr Lynch said that Caritas Jersey had “real concerns” about the potential impact of the rises in heating oil and forecourt costs stemming from the US-Israeli campaign against Iran.
At the time, he stated that the charity had “always called for a reduction in fuel duty going back to the last election” and that it would “certainly be something we would ask for now”.
In an update on Friday, Mr Lynch said: “We are very much still asking for, as an immediate measure, a 10p cut in duty.”
He contended that this would serve as a “tangible benefit”, particularly to those on lower wages – noting higher levels of driving were seen in certain professions such as cleaners and care workers.
ATF Fuels director Jonathan Best, who has also previously campaigned for a cut in duty, said: “Our position would remain the same.
“We would welcome a fuel duty reduction during this period to help customers and consumers of ours with the cost of living.”
