Panic buying amid concern of a strike by fuel tanker delivery drivers

Motorists queued to fill up at forecourts after the coalition government was accused of sparking “panic buying” amid concern of a strike by fuel tanker delivery drivers.

Fuel stations across the Borough yesterday saw queues forming throughout the day after ministers advised motorists to “top up” in the event of a strike taking place – even though any walkout is at least a week away.

Fuel station operators warned the government was intent on “causing a crisis”, with reports of shortages in some parts of the country.

Meanwhile, firefighters condemned suggestions by Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude that motorists should fill jerry cans to create their own reserves, warning that it would “massively increase” the threat of fire and explosion.

Unite union drivers, who supply 90 per cent of UK forecourts, have voted to strike but talks are to be held with the conciliation body Acas later this week with the aim of averting a walkout.

Figures out yesterday show petrol sales rose 45 per cent on Tuesday and diesel rose 20 per cent in what appeared to be a sign of panic-buying, according to Brian Madderson of the Retail Motor Industry Federation, which represents independent forecourt operators.

“This government appears intent on creating a crisis out of a serious concern,” he said. He called for the government to show “cool heads” and stop encouraging people to stockpile fuel.

Meanwhile, fuel giant Esso warned that some sites may temporarily be out of one or two types of fuel as people rushed to fill up their tanks.

Mr Cameron yesterday chaired a meeting of Cobra, the body which deals with civil emergencies, where ministers were briefed on measures to minimise the possible impact of any strike, including using military drivers, the possibility of recruiting foreign tanker drivers and setting up fuel stockpiles. The impact of a strike on the emergency services, other vital services and supermarket deliveries was also discussed.

A Downing Street spokesman said last night: “Ministers agreed that motorists should continue to take sensible precautions to prepare for the impact of a possible strike.

“There is no need to queue for petrol, but in the normal course of business, motorists should consider keeping their tanks topped up. But there is no shortage of fuel at present and forecourts are being replenished.”

There are plans to put hundreds of military personnel through an eight-day training course to enable them to take the place of striking drivers.

Mr Cameron had earlier denied he was trying to “raise the temperature” in the dispute, insisting the government was delivering a “very calm, very sensible” message.

But he said there was “absolutely no justification” for a strike.