UK: Gas station queues and petrol rationing

Because of “unprecedented demand”, the EG Group chain, which operates at nearly 350 stations, has introduced a petrol purchase limit of up to £30 per customer. BP’s concern announced the temporary closure of some stations. Shell and ExxonMobile also reported fuel availability issues at their stations.

The British government and the oil companies ensure that there is no need to panic and that the supply of petrol and diesel is sufficient. But they add that a shortage of truck drivers makes it difficult to transport fuel from refineries to gas stations.

Retail chains have also reported serious problems maintaining supply chains. Industry officials warned Friday that if the driver shortage is not resolved within the next 10 days, there could be a problem with deliveries during the Christmas season.

According to media reports, the government is considering allowing entry to the UK with 5,000 short-term visas. Foreign truck drivers. Such a solution was requested months ago by representatives of the transport sector, who welcomed the reports. But as Reuters has written, there are voices that even such a step is insufficient and will not solve Britain’s long-term transport problems.

According to representatives of the transport industry, the United Kingdom lacks about 100,000 jobs. truck drivers. After Brexit, about 25,000 people left the UK. Drivers, and the COVID-19 pandemic has halted the process of obtaining qualifications by new employees in the transportation industry for nearly a year.

Transportation Secretary Grant Shapps on Friday announced an increase in the number of truck driver tests, which is also expected to contribute to resolving the crisis.