- The UK government has relaxed its sanctions on Russian crude oil, now permitting the indefinite import of jet fuel and diesel refined in third countries.
- A new trade licence, effective from Wednesday, will be periodically reviewed due to surging fuel costs and the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.
- Tory leader Kemi Badenoch criticised the move as “insane”, arguing it undermines efforts against Russia and prioritises imports over domestic oil and gas production.
- The decision comes after petrol prices in the UK reached 158.5p per litre, the highest since December 2022, with further increases expected.
- Chancellor Rachel Reeves is also reportedly set to abandon plans to increase fuel duty.
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