Ulster Unionist Economy Spokesperson Diana Armstrong MLA has responded to yesterday’s announcement from the UK Government on fuel duty and red diesel.

Diana Armstrong MLA said:

“While I welcome this package of measures, and in particular the temporary reduction in red diesel duty which will provide some much-needed relief for our farmers, I have to ask: where was this response weeks ago?

“Our agricultural businesses have been bearing the full brunt of soaring fuel costs throughout this crisis, with many pushed to breaking point. Fuel is not a discretionary expense on a farm. It is the lifeblood of food production. The Government’s delay in acting has cost our farming community dearly.

“The same must be said for our hauliers and everyday commuters. Hauliers have been squeezed from every direction, with rising diesel costs eating into already tight margins and knock-on effects felt right across our supply chains. And for the ordinary commuter, many of whom have no alternative but to drive, fuel costs have become a genuine burden on household budgets. The 12-month road tax holiday for HGVs and the extended fuel duty freeze are welcome, but they should not have taken a full blown crisis to arrive.

“This is a modest gesture, and a belated one at that. It does not undo the damage done during weeks of inaction at the height of this crisis.

“I will continue to work with colleagues to press this Labour Government to ensure that Northern Ireland’s farmers, hauliers and rural communities receive a fair deal they need and deserve.”