UK Government has allayed fears of fuel shortage after oil giant BP shut some gas stations due to supply issues.
Gatekeepers News reports that the energy giant said tens of forecourts in its 1,200-strong network were experiencing shortages because of the nationwide lack of Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers. The shortage of drivers is attributed to issues including non-UK workers affected by Brexit, pandemic delays holding up HGV tests, and drivers being caught up in the “pingdemic” of COVID alerts earlier this year.
Prime minister, Boris Johnson’s spokesman noted that the government is aware that there were “issues facing many industries across the UK, and not just in terms of HGV drivers”.
According to him, there was no shortage of fuel and that there was a “very resilient and robust supply chain”.
“People should continue to shop for fuel as usual,” the spokesman said.
BP, which had experienced similar disruption in July, said it was “prioritising” the sites experiencing shortages to ensure they are re-stocked first.
In a statement, the company said: “We are experiencing fuel supply issues at some of our retail sites in the UK and unfortunately have therefore seen a handful of sites temporarily close due to a lack of both unleaded and diesel grades.
“These have been caused by delays in the supply chain, which has been impacted by industry-wide driver shortages across the UK and we are working hard to address this issue.
“We continue to work with our haulier supplier to minimise disruption and to ensure efficient and effective deliveries to serve our customers.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
Logistics UK, which represents the logistics industry, said: “Logistics UK is aware of reports that petrol supplies are currently being affected by the HGV driver shortage.
“The driver shortage is a very serious issue that needs urgent government and industry action to resolve, however, we urge people not to panic buy.
“The logistics industry is resilient and has proven capable of supporting shops, families and businesses during COVID-19, border closures and the first stages of Brexit, and will continue to serve the needs of the nation.”
