A government minister has insisted the UK has a “diverse” diesel supply after Donald Trump threatened a ban on US exports to the EU, reports BritPanorama.
The UK joined crisis talks with Brussels on Thursday morning to discuss the possible need to release their emergency stocks. This came after President Trump reportedly told Germany and France to draw down emergency diesel supplies to help ease global fuel prices, which have surged due to his war with Iran.
The US president is said to be frustrated with the two countries for not fully following through on earlier commitments to release emergency oil and petroleum stocks. Transport minister Keir Mather stated that the UK is “working very closely” with US counterparts to stress the importance of maintaining diesel flows worldwide.
He emphasized the UK has a “range of supply” of diesel available. “I want to reassure people this morning that the United Kingdom has got a diverse range of supply when it comes to diesel,” he said.
Mather added, “We are working very closely with our US counterparts to stress the importance of that relationship and the importance of sustaining flows of diesel around the world, but also working through international fora in the International Energy Agency and with partners in Europe, from whom we get a proportion of our diesel imports as well.”
President Trump is considering the potential ban to bring down US fuel prices ahead of November’s midterm elections, but it remains unclear whether the UK would be included in any restrictions. US energy secretary Chris Wright noted that the US administration expects announcements soon from Europe about new diesel supplies.
A US official told Reuters: “It is in Europe’s best interest to work with the United States as we pursue multiple pathways to boost the supply of refined products and lower costs for consumers.”
British officials are engaged in discussions with the US regarding the possible export ban, with Andy Burnham stating he would seek an exemption for the UK if such measures were enacted. Diesel prices in the UK recently reached an all-time high, with many forecourts charging over £2 a litre.
Prices have been on the rise in recent weeks, surpassing the previous peak of 199.09p set in June 2022. Chancellor John Healey commented on the situation, indicating he is taking the threat “very seriously” and mentioned the UK’s own stock reserves. “In the end, we’re also working with the Americans where we can try and put in place what will solve this, or at least significantly ease it, which would be a diplomatic settlement [and] an end to the fighting with Iran,” he remarked.
As the energy crisis continues to unfold, the focus on international cooperation remains critical amid fluctuating global fuel demands.
