A recent survey indicates that a substantial majority of the British public supports either freezing or reducing fuel duty at the upcoming Budget. According to the poll conducted on behalf of the Road Haulage Association (RHA), 80 percent of respondents favor government action to prevent increases in fuel duty. Approximately half of those surveyed expressed a preference for a reduction, while 30 percent called for the current rates to be maintained.

The findings reflect widespread concerns over the impact of higher fuel and transport costs on consumer prices, particularly food. Eight in ten participants cited fears that any increase in fuel expenses would directly contribute to rising grocery bills.

Richard Smith, chief executive of the RHA, highlighted the direct link between diesel costs and retail prices. “Almost everything on supermarket shelves got there on a lorry,” he said. “When diesel goes up, that cost has nowhere to go but onto prices.”

The survey results underscore the ongoing sensitivity to inflationary pressures amid the current economic climate. Transport and logistics sectors have repeatedly warned of the ripple effects caused by fuel price fluctuations, which can exacerbate the cost of living for households nationwide.

A Treasury spokesperson responded to the survey by stressing that decisions regarding tax rates fall within the Chancellor's remit and will be addressed during fiscal announcements. Chancellor John Healey is expected to review fuel duty as part of his broader budgetary strategy, with market observers and industry stakeholders closely monitoring the government’s approach.