Retailers urged to help drive for extension of fuel rebate

Angus and Mearns fuel retailers have been urged to assist the UK Government in a drive which could see the extension of a rebate scheme to mainland rural areas.

North-East Liberal Democrat MSP Alison McInnes has welcomed plans for the autumn submission of a bid to expand the scheme, which enables retailers to claim back 5p a litre on petrol and diesel and help lower prices at the pumps.

“High fuel prices are a major concern for local people across Angus and I welcome the steps the UK Government has already taken by freezing and postponing fuel duty rises,” she said.

“But there’s still more that can be done. Some rural and remote areas in Angus face higher petrol prices than their urban counterparts yet are more dependent on cars to get around.

“I hope that local fuel retailers will respond to the Government’s consultation and help make the strongest case possible to take to Europe.”

Angus councillor David May said he was also backing the effort of UK Chief Secretary to the Treasury Danny Alexander over the issue.

“This will not be easy but the potential benefits to areas like ours in Angus are very considerable,” he said.