Northampton's major supermarkets decline to comment on 'bleak' fuel price increases

Drivers have reported petrol and diesel prices climbing in recent days, with experts warning the cost could rise further.

The RAC says average prices across the UK have jumped sharply since the end of February.

Simon Williams said: “Average petrol and diesel prices have rocketed in the last week and are unfortunately likely to keep on rising, so the situation for UK drivers is looking increasingly bleak. Petrol is up 5p to 137.5p and diesel up 9p to 151p a litre since the current crisis began on Saturday 28 February.

“Unleaded is almost certainly going to reach an average of 140p in the next week or so while diesel looks highly likely to climb to at least 160p a litre. The price of diesel is increasing more quickly now than at any point since the start of the Ukraine conflict. With oil at a sustained $100, petrol could rise towards 150p a litre - a price not seen since June 2024. Diesel could reach almost 180p, which would be a three-year high.

“We encourage drivers to continue filling up as normal but to shop around for the best prices using apps like myRAC as there can be big local differences between forecourts. Driving fuel efficiently by avoiding harsh accelerating and braking and ensuring tyres are inflated to the right pressures can help eke out every last mile and save money.”

Chronicle & Echo contacted the UK’s three major supermarkets for comment on the rising prices.

Tesco and MFG, which operates Morrisons Fuel forecourts, did not provide a comment.

Sainsbury's provided background information but did not issue an official comment.

A spokesperson said: “We adjust fuel prices in line with changes to our own costs and what we are seeing across the wider market.

“Our aim is always to offer competitive prices while ensuring we can maintain reliable supply for customers.”

Northampton Labour MPs Mike Reader and Lucy Rigby have been asked what they are doing to lobby the Labour Government.