UK Transport Minister says diesel supply remains secure as prices breach £2 per litre

Keir Mather, the UK transport minister, said the nation’s diesel market remains robust even as average retail prices have risen above £2 per litre for the first time. He pointed to a diversified supply chain, with imports accounting for about 55% of diesel and the United States supplying nearly one-third of that volume. The UK is participating in emergency talks with Brussels and has faced pressure from US Treasury secretary Scott Bessent to release strategic fuel reserves.

Mather emphasized ongoing cooperation with US and European partners, including the International Energy Agency, to safeguard supplies while the fuel duty freeze stays in place. RAC head of policy Simon Williams said the surge in costs will hit commuters, haulage firms and fleet operators hard. The government must also maintain oil stocks equal to at least 90 days of net imports, as required by the IEA, to prepare for any severe market disruption.