News story

Ballot on industrial action by Unite fuel tanker drivers - 30 March

Information on the industrial action by Unite fuel tanker drivers.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Following a ballot by the union Unite, fuel tanker drivers have voted to undertake strike action.

The government has condemned this potentially disruptive action and urged both sides to negotiate a settlement to avoid strike action.

There is currently no problem with fuel supplies. But if a strike were to go ahead, supplies of fuel to some, but not all, forecourts across the UK could be affected.

The government is able to take a number of steps to minimise disruption, in particular to make sure the emergency services get the supplies they need.

Motorists can help by following the following sensible advice at this point, before there is a strike and when there is no problem with supply:

  • There is no need to queue at petrol forecourts.
  • There is no urgency to top up your tank.
  • Check travel sites and latest news before travelling.
  • Stick to speed limits as this helps conserve fuel.

Driving your car: green tips

Regular updates and the latest information will be published on Directgov.

Published 30 March 2012