British van drivers face extra 2.5 billion pounds in diesel costs

Millions of British van drivers face an additional 2.5 billion pounds in costs to cover rising diesel prices this year, according to the Guardian. The increase is prompting calls for the government to scrap its planned fuel duty rise. [1]

The Guardian reported that the average annual fuel bill for van drivers could reach 1,965 pounds, up from 1,294 pounds. Overall, owners of diesel vans and pickups are projected to spend nearly 8.5 billion pounds on fuel this year. [1]

The surge in diesel prices to record highs comes amid a global fuel shortage, the Guardian said. The shortage has been caused by ongoing disruptions to oil refineries. [1]

Rising energy costs are affecting multiple sectors, as FTMQ News reported earlier. Schools in Northern Ireland were recently advised to lower heating levels and have staff and pupils wear extra clothing to cope with expanding energy bills. [3]