Speaking after a cross party meeting of Highland MPs with Scotland Office Minister, David Mundell MP concerning fuel issues in islands communities, Angus B MacNeil MP for na h-Eileanan an Iar said:

“We had a productive meeting with David Mundell MP, Scotland Office Minister.  It was agreed that efforts would be made to invite fuel distributors and perhaps some retailers to meet with the government and a group of cross party MPs, perhaps also with the Office of Fair Trading present to discuss issues that could ultimately bring a reduction in the fuel price at the pumps.

“My main issues of concern is that there must be more freedom for retailers to choose which fuel distributor they purchase from and retailers must not be so tied to distributors, through devices such as rebates to retailers which are paid in arrears months later.

“The meeting also touched on the success of the rural fuel derogation and the need for rigorous monitoring to ensure that the discount was being passed on to customers.  I also argued that over time the rural fuel derogation will have to increase.

“Finally, I am pleased that the Minister is moving forward and plans to have a meeting with distributors in Scotland before Christmas, to get a fuller picture of their particular issues in the market.”

 

ENDS