Drivers Should Fill Up Normally

Stirling MP Alyn Smith has appealed for calm, and urged motorists to continue filling their vehicles as they normally would, as concerns continue over fuel supplies across the UK.

Warnings continued from haulage firms last week regarding the continuing HGV driver shortage, and the subsequent, limited impact this may have on select delivery to petrol stations. Scenes over the weekend flooded social media feeds, featuring long queues at petrol station forecourts up and down the country as people rushed to stock up.

Industry leaders have pleaded with consumers to buy normally, as fears of shortages and panic buying have become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Shortages in the Stirling area have been minimal, and deliveries are continuing to keep garages stocked up. Drivers should refill as they normally would.

Alyn Smith MP said:

‘I urge motorists to keep sensible, and avoid the vicious cycle of panic buying and shortages. Fuel supplies remain plentiful, and by sticking to normal consumption patterns we can help the fuel industry ensure continuity of supply. 

‘This whole situation is a damning indictment of a UK Tory Government asleep at the wheel. These limited fuel supply issues have been exacerbated by labour and goods shortages due to Brexit and the pandemic, and people in my constituency desperately need UK Ministers to get a grip. 

‘Soaring energy prices, cuts to Universal Credit, the end of the furlough scheme, a rise in National Insurance, shortages of labour, food and now fuel – all whilst Covid-19 remains a threat. This is not what people expect from government. I urge the Prime Minister to get a handle on this situation, and keep people safe as we head into winter. He can start by cancelling the planned £20 a week cut to Universal Credit, which will drive many Stirling households into poverty.’