Three supermarkets have cut fuel prices following claims that retailers were refusing to pass on a drop in wholesale costs.
Asda, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s have reduced the price of unleaded by up to 3p per litre and diesel by up to 2p.
Drivers have suffered a rise in fuel prices almost every day since the end of April despite wholesale costs coming down by around 2.5p per litre since May 24.
The RAC says recent falls in wholesale costs have been caused by the US drilling for more oil than in recent years, increased output from Russia and speculation that oil-producing group Opec will end its restriction on production.
On Monday, average UK forecourt prices stood at £1.29 per litre for unleaded and £1.33 for diesel – the most expensive both have been since September 2014.
Drivers will pay no more than £1.25 per litre for unleaded and £1.28 for diesel at Asda’s 318 filling stations. It was the first supermarket to announce a price cut on Wednesday.
Asda chief executive Roger Burnley said: “We know that the cost of living is centre of mind for our customers and we will always do whatever we can to reduce that burden.
“Customers can trust us to lead the way when it comes to lowering the price of fuel and putting cash back in their pocket.”
RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said: “At last, retailers have done the right thing and started to cut prices at the pumps.
“From our data, we could see no justification for them holding on to savings that they have been benefiting from for three weeks.
“With petrol prices rising at their fastest rate in 18 years last month, millions of households and businesses will have been feeling the effect of having to spend more on what is an essential purchase for many. Today’s cuts should bring some welcome relief.
“It is absolutely right that at times when wholesale prices are falling, forecourt prices follow suit.”
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