The UK has been suffering from a fuel shortage since early 2020.
Fuel shortages have been a constant issue in the UK since early 2020. Petrol stations across the country have been struggling to keep up with demand, leading to shortages and even price hikes.
In early 2020, oil prices spiked following a decision by Saudi Arabia to cut production. The decision was made in response to an oil crisis that began in 2019 when Iran, one of the world’s largest oil producers, decided to stop exporting oil due to US sanctions. The supply shortage sent petrol prices skyrocketing and led to long queues at petrol stations across the country.
The first wave of fuel shortages hit in March 2020. The Government responded by imposing a four-day working week for public sector workers, which would be followed by three days off every week until further notice. This meant that workers were not required to work on Fridays, but would be expected back at work on Mondays and Tuesdays.
