M27 drivers warned of 'no fuel' amid ongoing conflict in Middle East
Drivers on the M27 are being warned there is no fuel available amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
AA Traffic News has reported there is “no fuel available at the lorry pumps on M27 eastbound at Rownhams Services” between junction 3 and 4.
It comes as some petrol pumps across the country are witnessing “temporary shortages” amid tight supply linked to the conflict in the Middle East, the boss of Asda has warned as the price of petrol jumped above 150p per litre for the first time in almost two years.
Petrol and diesel prices have lifted significantly since the end of February after the war between Iran and US-Israeli forces led to disruption in the production and supply of oil from the Middle East.
The UK’s second largest fuel retailer stressed elevated demand from customers has led to a small number of local “spikes”. Fuel Industry UK, which represents the fuel sector, said the supply of petrol and diesel is “stable”.
Allan Leighton, executive chairman of Asda, also rejected accusations that petrol sellers might be “profiteering” from higher pricing in recent weeks.
The average price of unleaded petrol has risen by more than 17p a litre since the end of February to 150.11p, according to fresh RAC data.
RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: “Petrol has now broken through the unwelcome milestone of 150p a litre, something drivers haven’t seen since mid-May two years ago, while the average price of diesel is now approaching 180p at 177.68p.
“With the long-awaited four-day Easter weekend almost within touching distance, the cost of getting away by car is going to be noticeably higher this year.”
Mr Leighton said the retailer has seen bumper demand from drivers in response to the volatility in prices. He stressed the issue has only affected “the odd pump” at a small number of its petrol forecourts, highlighting no forecourts have been fully short of fuel.
He said: “Our fuel volumes are up quite significantly and clearly demand has been outstripping supply. Supply is tight and we are all trying hard on that.
“The issue is a temporary one, and some could see issues when we are waiting for delivery, and we can expect to see that continue.
“The spikiness at the moment makes this tricky for us, as spikes can lead to temporary shortages. These are temporary and are addressed very quickly.”