MP calls for action on fuel price in the upcoming Budget

Cumbrian MP Tim Farron has called on the Chancellor to announce action to reduce fuel prices in the upcoming budget.

With this year's budget being held on 20th March, Tim is doing all he can to press the chancellor to cut the price of fuel for people throughout Cumbria.

The findings of a major report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research shows that a fuel duty cut of 2.5p per litre would create 180,000 jobs in the first year at no net tax loss. In addition, it would boost GDP by 0.33%. An even bolder 5p cut would cost the Exchequer an estimated £1 billion, a figure likely to be offset by increased consumer confidence and would help create another 30,000 jobs.

Tim said: "In rural areas like ours, a car is not a luxury; it is a necessity of life. Fuel costs are a major issue for families and I am pushing hard to try and make the government act. The government have made some welcome moves. For example, I urged the chancellor to axe the previous government's planned rises last year - something which he did.

"However, there is still more they need to do to help hard-pressed businesses and families in Cumbria. I want to see the rural fuel derogation pilot, which is currently being successfully trialled in the Highlands, brought to Cumbria. This would slash 5p off the cost of petrol at forecourts throughout Cumbria.

"We also need to look at the cost of fuel to help haulage and businesses. Any extra cost at this time is something they cannot afford."