FUEL DUTY RURAL REDUCTION SHELVED BY COALITION

GORDON DEEPLY LET DOWN BY LIB DEMS AND TORIES

Commenting on reports that the planned discount on fuel in remote rural areas will not be in the March’s UK Budget, Gordon MSP Alex Salmond said the people of Gordon have been deeply let down by Lib Dems and the Tories, who promised a pilot scheme in their coalition agreement.

Meanwhile the SNP has launched a new campaign leaflet, to be rolled out shortly across Gordon, highlighting the SNP support for a fuel duty stabiliser to be introduced by Westminster or for powers over fuel duty to be transferred to the Scottish Parliament.

Commenting Mr Salmond said:

“The price at the pump is soaring across Gordon and its having a crippling effect, not only on domestic drivers but also on independent filling stations and local businesses.

“The Lib Dems called for a rural fuel duty discount before the election, and clearly promised a pilot in their coalition agreement. People in Gordon will feel deeply let down that the Lib Dems and Tories have now stamped the brakes on the proposal.

“The SNP has been the only party to consistently support hard pressed families and businesses against unreasonable rises in fuel costs. The Scottish Government is doing what it can to help keep household budgets down by freezing the council tax and abolishing prescription charges. It’s time for the UK Government to stop dithering and start delivering on fuel."