After winning the backing of more than 100,000 people with his e-petition
calling for a cut in fuel tax, Harlow MP Robert Halfon is taking on the
Government again pressing for a freeze on fuel duty in the next Budget.

He has also written to the Office of Fair Trading highlighting the high cost
of fuel in Harlow, stating that petrol prices in Harlow seem to be about 5p
a litre more expensive than in nearby towns such as Epping, Chelmsford
and Stevenage.

Mr Halfon has been contacted by a number of constituents regarding the
high fuel prices in the town.

In his letter, which calls for "urgent action" to be taken against the high
prices being charged in Harlow, Mr Halfon writes: "A constituent has
pointed out that some parts of Scotland have cheaper prices despite the
fuel being refined and distributed from sites in Essex!

"There is also little or no competition within Harlow itself. As Harlow petrol
stations are charging the same price, residents have no option but to pay
this. Is the lack of competition keeping prices in the town artificially high?
"Harlow residents find it difficult enough to meet the cost of fuel without
feeling that their town is having to endure higher than average pump
prices."

Mr Halfon received praise in the House of Commons and national media for his campaign
victory which saw a proposed fuel tax increase postponed.

Addressing the Leader of the House of Commons, George Young, in the House today, Mr
Halfon said he was calling on the Chancellor to freeze fuel duty –and to also look at the
possibility of reducing it when he delivers his Budget speech.

Mr Halfon asked: "May we have a debate on lower taxes for lower earners, given that poor
motorists will be hit twice as hard as richer motorists if petrol and diesel duties rise? Can my
right hon. Friend urge the Chancellor to cut petrol and diesel tax in the next Budget?

Sir George Young said he would raise the matter with the Chancellor.

Sir George added: "I commend (Mr Halfon) on what he did with the e-petition on the issue
last year, which resulted in the postponement of an increase that was due earlier this month."
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Issued by David Jackman (07710 447868) on behalf of Robert Halfon MP