THIS week the House of Commons debated a motion about the cost of fuel for transport.

In October, unleaded fuel reached an average of 135.02 pence per litre meaning that small and medium sized businesses are encountering difficulties in transporting materials and products.

Furthermore, some families are facing transport fuel bills of up to 10 per cent of their income. Fuel costs are a real concern and, judging by my postbag, many constituents are worried so I am determined to maintain appropriate pressure through Parliament.

The Coalition Government has, already, taken some measures to alleviate the situation.

Notably, the last budget provided a £1.9 billion package of measures to reduce duty, including the abolition of the fuel duty escalator. A fair fuel stabiliser to mitigate the impact of high oil prices was announced.

Rural areas, like ours, are particularly vulnerable to increasing fuel costs so the Coalition Government has also proposed a pilot scheme for an additional 5p per litre rebate for rural areas. I hope that this measure is quickly approved.

To make some solid progress in the right direction, we need to ensure that reductions in the price of crude oil are passed direct to customers and we should be exploring the feasibility of a price stabilisation mechanism to address fluctuations in forecourt prices.

Turning to heating costs for homes, all elderly people will receive a winter fuel payment to help with keeping warm during the winter months and, for many, this payment is essential. Some, however, are fortunate enough not to need the payment so, in these circumstances, they can donate it to people in greater need.

To this end, Care and Repair (Stroud) Ltd, Wood U Waste, Acorn Day Centre and Uplands Care Service are all encouraging people who do not rely on the fuel allowance to donate all or part of it. This can be done by looking at www.donateyourfuelallowance.com or by sending a cheque to Wood U Waste.

If you would like to discuss the issues raised above, please contact me on 01453 751572 or visit my website, www.neilcarmichael.co.uk