Bid To End Fuel Panic As Govt Changes Advice

The Government has attempted to put an end to the nationwide fuel panic after reversing its advice that drivers fill up their tanks.

Petrol stations across the UK have faced long queues and shortages since Cabinet Office Minister Francis Maude said motorists should store jerry cans of fuel in their garages.

But after Unite , the union representing 2,000 fuel tanker drivers, ruled out the threat of strikes over Easter, the Government has moved to allay widespread fears of a crisis.

The Department for Energy and Climate Change - which had been urging drivers to fill up if their tanks dropped below two-thirds full - said: "There is no urgency to top up your tank, a strike will not happen over Easter."

And in an effort to help combat shortages at some petrol stations, EU rules that limit fuel tanker drivers to nine hours on the road each day have been temporarily changed to allow 11.

It comes as Diane Hill, 46, from York, recovers in hospital with 40% burns after vapours ignited as she transferred petrol from one container to another, setting fire to her clothing.

Prime Minister David Cameron said his heart went out to the woman who was burnt, describing it as a "desperate" incident.

And with Unite stressing it retains the right to call industrial action if talks, expected to start next week, break down, Downing Street insists the threat of shortages is not yet over.

"It remains vital we take the necessary steps to keep the country safe in case there is a strike," a spokesman said.

Friday saw more panic-buying at garages across the country after petrol sales increased by almost 172% and diesel by almost 77% on Thursday.

Leaked emails seen by Sky suggested ambulance drivers were having fuel rationed, while an industry leader described the crisis as "self-inflicted insanity".

Labour MPs are calling for the resignation of Mr Maude, who has faced a barrage of criticism for his earlier advice.

John Mann, Labour MP for Bassetlaw, said Mr Maude should do the "decent thing" and resign.

"This is precisely what the fire brigade warned against and the current panic is a direct result of Francis Maude's rash and foolish reaction to negative press on pasties and number 10 dinners," he said.

Meanwhile, the Fire Brigades Union called for the Government to make an urgent public safety announcement highlighting the dangers of petrol in the home.