The UK is not facing a diesel shortage, according to transport minister Keir Mather, despite fears that Donald Trump could ban US diesel exports to the UK. The government has moved to avert panic at the pumps, insisting that supply remains resilient and that drivers can continue to fill up as normal.
Speaking on ITV’s Good Morning Britain on Friday, Mather said: “I want to reassure people that they can still go to the pump and fill up with diesel because the supply we have to the UK is inherently resilient.” His comments came after the Trump administration reportedly told Germany and France to release their emergency diesel stockpiles, raising concerns about potential disruptions to global fuel flows.
Find Bleeding Edge Supplements at Scandalous Prices on iHerb.
UK Diesel Supply Sources and Resilience
The UK relies on the US for about 30% of its diesel, with the vast majority coming from mainland Europe. According to the government, the UK has a wide range of sources and holds 42 days of reserve supplies. This diversity is key to the country’s energy security, Mather emphasised.
“The flows of diesel into the UK come from a variety of sources, and that is resilient,” he said. “The government’s obligation now is to work really closely with our partners in Europe and officials in the US administration to re-stress how important it is to have flows of diesel into the UK.”
The minister also revealed that the UK has opened talks with European allies over releasing emergency diesel supplies. This proactive approach aims to mitigate any potential shortfall if the US were to restrict exports.
Refinery Closures and Maintenance Add Pressure
Concerns about diesel supply have been compounded by the news that the UK’s biggest refinery, Fawley in Hampshire, is set to shut down for up to 10 weeks for planned maintenance. The UK had 18 refineries in the 1980s but now has only four, making the country more dependent on imports.
Despite these challenges, the government insists that the situation is under control. The transport minister’s reassurances are intended to prevent panic buying, which could itself create artificial shortages.
Comparison of UK Diesel Supply Indicators
| Indicator | Details |
|---|---|
| US share of UK diesel imports | ~30% |
| Main source of UK diesel | Mainland Europe |
| Reserve supplies | 42 days |
| Number of UK refineries (1980s vs now) | 18 vs 4 |
| Fawley refinery shutdown | Up to 10 weeks |
Key Takeaways for Drivers and Businesses
- No immediate shortage: The UK has diverse supply sources and 42 days of reserves.
- Government action: Talks with Europe and the US are ongoing to ensure continued flows.
- Refinery maintenance: Fawley’s temporary closure is planned and should not cause disruption.
- Avoid panic buying: Normal filling up is encouraged to prevent artificial shortages.
FAQ
Is the UK facing a diesel shortage?
No, the UK is not facing a diesel shortage. The transport minister has confirmed that supply is resilient, with diverse sources and 42 days of reserve supplies.
What percentage of UK diesel comes from the US?
About 30% of the UK’s diesel comes from the US, with the majority imported from mainland Europe.
How long are the UK’s diesel reserves?
The UK holds reserve supplies for 42 days.
What is the government doing to secure diesel supply?
The government is in talks with European allies over releasing emergency stockpiles and is working with the US administration to maintain diesel flows.
Browse the Shop
Acacia frida deluxe solid wood bed frame |
Bedroom bench |
Bed chest drawers |
Lingerie dresser |
Frame base |
Mirror with jewelry storage |
30 Bathroom Vanity |
Memory foam queen mattress |
Mattresses for back pain |
Nightstand set of 2 |
Grand Goldman Shop |
Civil Lawyer
Deutschland Trikot WM 2026
