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Fuel Crisis Looms: Cut Speed Limits, Ban Jets!
15 May
Summary
- Climate groups urge UK to ban private jets and lower motorway speeds.
- Iran war impact feared similar to 1970s oil shocks.
- UK faces jet fuel shortage risk before summer holidays.
Leading climate and transport organisations are warning UK ministers against inaction regarding a potential fuel supply crisis. They propose immediate measures such as banning private jets and reducing motorway speed limits to 60mph to proactively decrease oil demand. This call comes amid concerns that the ongoing Iran war could trigger severe shortages of jet fuel and significant increases in petrol prices.
The organisations highlight that the current situation's impact might mirror the combined effects of the 1970s oil shocks and the fallout from Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Analysts suggest the UK is particularly vulnerable to a jet fuel shortage, with a risk of rationing occurring just before the peak summer holiday period.
Several countries have already implemented responses, including fuel rationing and reduced speed limits. The proposed UK measures, including a levy on frequent flyers and short-haul flights, could collectively save 8% of the UK's annual jet fuel consumption. Reducing motorway speed limits by 10mph could conserve 1.5% of road transport fuel.
A UK government spokesperson stated that airlines currently report no fuel shortages and that contingency plans are in place, though motorway speed limit changes and private jet bans are not immediate plans. They acknowledge the public's value for holidays and are working with industry to ensure flights operate smoothly.
