High Peak MP welcomes help for rural businesses

New government measures aimed at easing fuel and operating cost pressures on rural businesses have been welcomed by High Peak MP Jon Pearce. 

The package, announced by the Prime Minister and Chancellor, includes a delay to the planned fuel duty increase until the end of the year, a 12-month HGV road tax holiday, and a cut to the duty rate on red diesel from 15 June. 

The measures follow calls from industry groups, including the National Farmers' Union (NFU), for support to help businesses cope with increasing costs linked to instability in the Middle East and wider global pressures. 

Mr Pearce said he has built strong relationships with farmers and agricultural organisations across High Peak and believes the measures will provide important relief for rural communities and local businesses. 

He said: “Farmers and hauliers play a vital role in keeping High Peak and the country moving, and many have been under real pressure from rising fuel and operating costs. 

“I know from speaking with local farmers and representatives from the NFU just how important practical support like this is. Delaying the fuel duty rise, cutting red diesel duty and supporting the haulage sector will help ease some of the pressure businesses are facing. 

“High Peak has a proud farming community, and I will continue working closely alongside local farmers, the NFU and rural businesses to make sure their voices are heard and properly represented in Westminster.” 

NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: “Since the outbreak of the war in the Middle East, we have consistently raised inflationary pressures facing farmers and growers with the government including in recent meeting with Defra ministers. 

“The government’s decision to scrap the planned rise in fuel duty is good news, the cut to red diesel duty is a welcome, well targeted measure.” 

The government said the measures are intended to help reduce pressure on businesses and consumers, while maintaining confidence in fuel supply chains and supporting key industries through ongoing global uncertainty. 

Industry bodies have also continued to call for further action on energy costs, business rates and support for the transition to low-carbon transport in the years ahead.