Government postpones 2p fuel duty hike
Date: 16 July 2008
The government has opted to postpone its proposed two pence fuel duty increase which would have taken effect in October.
Speaking about his decision to maintain the current fuel duty of 50.35p per litre, chancellor Alistair Darling said: "The global credit crunch and sharp rises in world oil prices have pushed up prices at the pump. Today's decision will help motorists and businesses get through what is a difficult time for everyone."
The Freight Transport Association welcomed the move, stating that it must be the first step in a major review of commercial vehicle taxation.
Geoff Dossetter, the association's director or external affairs, added that at 50p the UK's fuel duty still stand at double the European Union average of 25p.
The Road Haulage Association also offered the announcement a cautious welcome, saying that it is a very small step.
Chief executive Roger King noted that any planned increases should be scrapped altogether, including one which is scheduled for March 2009.
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