The Scottish Liberal Democrats have given a clear indication they believe action on fuel prices is imminent.
Energy spokesman Liam McArthur welcomed a “clear steer” given by UK ministers that they are “working hard to help” hard-pressed drivers.
The comments will be welcomed as significant due to the Lib Dems’ part in the coalition government at Westminster.
Chancellor George Osborne has been urged to cancel a scheduled rise on fuel duty on April 1, which many believe could cripple already struggling families and businesses.
Mr McArthur was speaking after oil giant Shell announced it had almost doubled its annual profits in the last year. High oil prices and a boost to production meant the British-Dutch firm increased earnings in the final three months of the year by almost 400% to £3.5 billion.
“Shell’s bumper profits are largely due to the spiralling cost of oil,” said Mr McArthur. “While this is cause for celebration to the big oil firms, it’s a source of misery to drivers across Scotland who are facing ever higher fuel prices.
“Labour did nothing to tackle rising fuel prices in 13 years, so I’m encouraged that UK ministers have given a clear steer that they are working hard to help drivers cope.”
There has been much public anger over the cost of filling up at the forecourt in recent months, with The Courier’s petition for a fairer system attracting well over 5000 names.
Earlier this week, First Minister Alex Salmond and the leaders of devolved administrations in Northern Ireland and Wales issued a joint plea for lower costs.
The issue will also be raised at Westminster on Monday after the SNP secured a joint opposition day debate with Plaid Cymru.
The UK Government has previously said it is “actively looking at options” for reducing the cost of fuel, including introducing a fuel duty stabiliser.If you want to support the Courier’s call for a fuel duty regulator, click here to add your name to our petition.