Caravanners were given fresh hope for a reduction in fuel costs yesterday (6 September) after the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) announced it was to investigate the current price of petrol.
The OFT is keen to examine whether reductions in the value of crude oil are being passed on to the price seen at petrol pumps up and down the country.
This investigation follows widespread criticism from hauliers, motorists and caravan owners alike related to the price of petrol, which has risen 38 per cent in the five years to June 2012, with diesel rising by a staggering 43 per cent.
The OFT has now decided to take action, with its investigation also examining the practices of supermarkets and big oil companies and whether these are making it harder for independent retailers to compete.
They will also assess whether there is a shortage of competition between fuel retailers in rural communities – upon whom many caravan owners remain reliant during touring holidays.
Geoff Dunning, chief executive of the Road Haulage Association, welcomed the move, saying: “We are greatly encouraged that the OFT has recognised the concerns of the haulage industry and the general public and is preparing to take action.”
The OFT is due to publish its findings in January 2013, so watch this space.
