Scrapping of fuel duty increase good news for isles — Carmichael

Orkney and Shetland MP Alistair Carmichael has welcomed news that the UK Government has scrapped the 3p per litre fuel duty hike due to come into force in January.

Speaking in the House of Commons, the Chancellor of the Exchequer confirmed that the rise would be abandoned during his Autumn Statement.

Mr Carmichael said: “Ministers are well aware of the difficulty that the high price of fuel has continued to cause for families around the country. In places like the Northern Isles, where alternatives to the car are not always available, increases in fuel costs puts a real squeeze on household income and news that the duty rise has been scrapped is welcome.

“I had received emails from hundreds of people across the isles on this issue and am pleased that the Chancellor and Chief Secretary to the Treasury have acted to help local motorists.”