The UK government has extended its fuel duty freeze until the end of the year, postponing a planned 5p per litre increase that had faced growing opposition from various quarters.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced the decision to delay the fuel duty hike during Prime Minister's Questions, following weeks of mounting pressure from critics who argued the timing was inappropriate given current fuel price levels.

The fuel duty had previously been cut by 5p in March 2022 under the Conservative government as part of measures to address rising fuel costs. The Labour government had planned to reverse this reduction but has now opted to maintain the current rates through the remainder of 2024.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has faced criticism over the government's fuel duty policy, with opponents arguing that high pump prices have already generated significant VAT revenue for the Treasury. Critics have described the postponement as insufficient given the continued financial pressure on motorists and businesses.

The decision affects millions of drivers across the UK and comes as fuel prices remain elevated compared to historical levels. The government's reversal on the planned increase reflects the political sensitivity around fuel costs, which directly impact household budgets and business operating expenses.