Opposition Day — Fuel Duty In Remote Rural Areas — 7 Feb 2011 at 19:15

The majority of MPs voted in favour of noting the government's commitment to deliver a discount in fuel duty for certain remote rural areas.

The text of the approved motion was:

• That this House:
• notes the dramatic increase in the world oil price to over $100 per barrel;
• further notes that there has been a significant impact on fuel prices in the UK as a result;
• recognises the impact this has on households and business;
• notes that the previous administration's rises in fuel duty that have taken effect during the past year have further increased prices;
• further notes that the Government inherited the largest deficit in UK peacetime history, that the previous administration had no credible plan to deal with the deficit, that the Government has been clear that everyone will make a contribution to tackle the deficit but that the most vulnerable will be protected, and that the Government is considering a fair fuel stabiliser that could support motorists and businesses when oil prices are high;
• further notes that the Government in addition is taking forward swiftly its commitment at EU level to introduce a pilot scheme that would deliver a discount of up to 5 pence per litre in duty in remote rural areas such as the Inner and Outer Hebrides, the Northern Isles and the Isles of Scilly; and
• further notes that the Chancellor will update the House on all fiscal matters at the time of the Budget."

There was nothing substantive in the approved motion as amendment; MPs merely agreed to note a number of items.

This vote was preceded by a vote during which MPs agreed not to call on the Government to reduce fuel duties for the most rural areas at the earliest possible opportunity.

Debate in Parliament | Source |