Hello,
I think much of the problem is caused by a view that when oil prices, vat etc. are reduced, consumers feel that these benefits aren't passed on, or are only passed on slowly and in part...
However, as soon as there is any reason whatsoever to justify a price increase, the local fuel stations increase the prices immediately.
Personally, I'm not satisfied that we are treated fairly.
I've previously discussed the issue with a few forcourt owners, who all claimed that prices were increased or decreased, when they received their next delivery of fuel. However, I don't believe that's the only trigger for prices increasing (otherwise, its some coincidence that so many stations get deliveries so promptly, after the price of a barrel of oil goes up on a given day etc.).
The AA used to be good at championing the consumer's cause, but I don't think they've had a lot of support from the public over the years, so they are losing interest / influence. Maybe we need to show them that we still need them?
Then we've the various consumer watchdogs, politicans etc. who tell us to shop around - which is a load of nonsense, as you'll spend more on fuel driving to a cheaper station, with the additional cost outweighing the potential benefit.
EVs are becoming more popular, as are solar panels on private houses, storage batteries etc. So the day is coming where more of us will be able to partly / fully source our own power, to run our vehicles. I, for one, can't wait...
