Petrol retailers have withdrawn from a meeting scheduled this afternoon with Chancellor Rachel Reeves, citing concerns about “inflammatory language” from government ministers.
The Petrol Retailers Association (PRA) stated that this decision comes amid increasing reports of public abuse directed at forecourt staff, which they believe has been exacerbated by government comments regarding pricing.
The PRA warned that continuing the meeting under these circumstances could further jeopardise staff safety.
The meeting was intended to address rising petrol and diesel prices, which have surged due to the conflict in Iran and global energy volatility. Ministers had previously urged retailers to ensure that drivers receive a “fair deal at the pump.”
The PRA said in a statement: “The PRA wrote to the Chancellor for a reassurance that the scheduled meeting be held in private, without media present to allow a conversation to explain how the fuel market works.
As her office could not provide this, Gordon Balmer has withdrawn from the meeting.
The PRA quoted Balmer saying: “Recently I have heard of incidents from some of our members of retail staff being abused by members of the public, who may have been provoked by the incorrect and inflammatory language emanating from some commentators.
Our members are working hard in difficult circumstances making sure that motorists and businesses are getting the fuel they need, at prices that are very competitive, on razor thin or in some cases negative margins which means they are losing money.
Petrol retailers have been working closely and productively with the CMA [Competition and Markets Authority] and DESNZ [Department for Energy Security and Net Zero] to put in place the “Fuel Finder scheme” which will help motorists find the best value petrol and diesel.
“There is clearly still a lot of work to do to help politicians and commentators to understand how the fuel market works and our door is always open for constructive dialogue.”
Sir Keir Starmer wrote on X: “If fuel companies try to rip off customers, my government will step in.”
As of now, no alternative arrangements for dialogue have been announced.
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