Nicol Stephen, Leader of the Liberal Democrats in Scotland is demanding action to protect motorists from any “rip-off” reaction to the closure of the oil refinery in Grangemouth.

Mr Stephen has written to the First Minister calling on him to instigate monitoring of fuel prices charged by garages and to see if any restrictions are now being placed on the supply.

Commenting, Mr Stephen said:

“The First Minister is adamant there is no fuel crisis. So there should be no excuse for motorists to face more rip-off prices as a reaction to problems at Grangemouth.

“The Government needs to protect fuel supply, but also protect consumers from profit-taking by the companies.

“I have written to the First Minister urging him to involve the UK competition authorities in monitoring the prices charged by garages for petrol and to see if any restrictions in supply are being imposed in the light of events at Grangemouth.

“Fuel is already well over 120p for a litre in parts of Scotland. I want Scottish Ministers to take steps to make sure Scottish motorists don't get punished in the pocket.

“Ministers should also check if companies are taking action to restrict supply – for example by closing pumps. Motorists need to know where they stand.”