SNP: Summer of discontent on the way

Tuesday, 27, May 2008 12:00

Gordon Brown faces a "summer of discontent" if he does not address concerns about soaring fuel prices, Scottish National party (SNP) MP Stewart Hosie has warned.

"Just like the 10p tax fiasco the soaring cost of fuel and road tax is hitting hard working families and businesses hardest. After the thrashing Labour got in the recent elections, it's no wonder their backbenchers are panicking.

"Perhaps these same Labour MPs now wish they had supported the SNP's proposal for a Fuel Duty Regulator when we first proposed it in 2005, but they will have another chance soon.

"Our road fuel regulator will help keep fuel prices down. It would make automatic a decision on freezing duties that is currently left to the chancellor's whim, and would help keep pump prices lower."