MACNEIL FIGHTS FOR FAIRER FUEL

For Immediate Release – Sunday 19th December 2010



Attention: NEWS DESKS


POLITICAL CORRESPONDENTS

LIB DEMS ‘MUST NOT DRAG HEELS’


SNP MP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar and SNP Transport Spokesperson Angus MacNeil has written to the Chief Secretary of the Treasury, Danny Alexander, calling on the UK Government to introduce its rural fuel discount without delay.


The scheme was announced by Mr Alexander to Liberal Democrat conference on the 9th of October 2010 but no announcement has yet been made on the roll out of the scheme.


Mr MacNeil, who has campaigned for the scheme to be put in place before the New Year VAT rise, said:


“It’s a national scandal that, in an oil rich country like Scotland, we are paying the highest fuel prices in Europe. The Treasury must stop this highway robbery because soaring fuel prices are hindering economic recovery.

“A litre of diesel already costs more than £1.40 in parts of my constituency. Hiking VAT and duty in the New Year will send it even higher.

“Danny Alexander promised to take action almost three months ago but so far noting has happened. They cannot drag their heels any longer.


“What Ministers in London forget is that for people in rural areas, a car is a necessity and not a luxury. It’s time for real action not warm words.”


ENDS





Notes:


The text of the letter says:


Rural Fuel Discount Scheme


Dear Danny,


In October you announced that the Coalition Government would be proceeding with plans to implement a rural fuel discount for several areas of the UK including my constituency Na h-Eileanan an Iar.


As the VAT rise is looming, I would like to inquire as to any progress made in the implementation of this project. I would also implore you to bring these measures forward as soon as possible to help alleviate the increased financial burden on families and businesses across Scotland.

As motorists in Scotland continue to pay the highest petrol prices in the UK it is imperative that this Government see sense and fairness where they are due. As I have said and, will continue to say, a car is not a luxury in the Hebrides; it is a necessity.


Regards,


Angus Brendan MacNeil MP


Na h-Eileanan an Iar