UK petrol retailers claim ‘inflammatory language’ of ministers led to staff abuse

The Petrol Retailers Association said ministers’ “inflammatory language” about rising pump prices may have provoked abuse of forecourt staff. The PRA, which represents owners of 65% of UK forecourts, said ministers had suggested forecourts might be “price gouging” and “ripping off” motorists as global oil markets surged amid the war in Iran.

It initially pulled out of a meeting with Rachel Reeves but then agreed to join talks at 11 Downing Street. The chancellor was expected to meet industry leaders alongside Ed Miliband, the energy secretary, as the Competition and Markets Authority was put on “high alert” for any unjustifiable price rises.

Forecourt owners will be required to provide revenue, costs and sales data to the watchdog, speeding up its review of fuel industry margins that began after the conflict two weeks ago. Fuel prices have risen at their fastest rate since 2022 and reached their highest level in 18 months after the US and Israel began airstrikes on Iran.

United Kingdom, London

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