INFLATION RATE HIGHLIGHTS UNFAIRNESS OF FUEL TAX

INFLATION RATE HIGHLIGHTS UNFAIRNESS OF FUEL TAX

ONLY SNP CHAMPIONS IN BALANCED PARLIAMENT MEANS FAIR FUEL PRICES

ALL LONDON PARTIES FAIL TO SUPPORT FAIR FUEL REGULATOR

The latest increase in inflation figures highlights fuel prices as a major issue in the election campaign. The SNP manifesto - launched yesterday - includes a commitment to fight for a fair fuel regulator to control fuel prices and reductions in fuel duty in rural areas.

Highlighting the commitment SNP candidate for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Angus MacNeil - the party's Westminster transport spokesman condemned the failure of the three London parties to back a fair fuel regulator to help hard pressed hauliers and families.

Commenting Mr MacNeil said:

"The SNP is committed to fair fuel prices across Scotland and in our rural communities.

"The failure of the three London parties to understand the impact of fuel prices in Scotland and their determination to hit fuel costs with treasury taxes has made a bad situation far worse.

"Alasdair Darling's refusal last week to cut rural prices will be the final straw for many people in our remote and rural communities.

"All the London parties have played their part in the scandal that is sky high fuel taxes. The Tories introduced the fuel tax escalator, Labour pushed it higher and the LibDems have failed to support the fair fuel regulator despite industry support.

"The issue of fair fuel prices for Scotland is a good example of a Westminster 'No' that may well become a 'Yes' in the event of a balanced Parliament with a strong bloc of local and national champions from the SNP fighting Scotland's corner."