No need for panic as there’s ‘plenty of fuel’

Chichester, West Sussex, showed punches and kicks being exchanged in a brawl.

AA president Edmund King, said the problem would pass in a matter of days if drivers only filled up when they needed to, because there was ‘plenty of fuel at source’.

But the Petrol Retailers’ Association warned the situation could get worse before it improves.

Asked about the crisis yesterday, Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said: ‘HGV drivers keep this country running. We are taking action to tackle the shortage of drivers by removing barriers to help more people launch new wellpaid careers in the industry, supporting thousands to get the training they need to be road-ready.’

Environment Secretary George Eustice added: ‘We have listened to concerns from the sector and we are acting to alleviate what is a very tight labour market.’