FUEL prices in Worcestershire could be set to fall by as much as 5p-a-litre thanks to new measures – or the county could miss out entirely.

The Government yesterday unveiled a proposal to cut petrol and diesel duty in parts of the UK where low competition is hammering motorists, such as in rural communities like Worcestershire.

The reductions look almost certain to benefit Herefordshire, but Worcestershire has been missed off an early list of 35 areas most likely to be included.

Some critics say it will result in a postcode lottery, with county retailers potentially missing out as drivers choose to fill up elsewhere to save money.

The move comes despite a report by the Office of Fair Trading last year that admitted campaigners in areas like Worcestershire were right to highlight high prices.

MP Peter Luff, who represents Mid-Worcestershire, said: “If this results in people in Worcestershire driving to Herefordshire to fill up, that would be quite worrying and I’d take a dim view.

“When I come back from London, I know where fuel is cheap and always fill up there.

“That said, many people have to use cars in remote areas and if it could be introduced here families would welcome it.”

Worcester MP Robin Walker welcomed the move.

He said: “Even if it’s unlikely to help us it’s a good idea – it’s also helpful in framing the debate that – clearly – prices are too high.”

The Government says many retailers in rural areas whackup prices because the suppliers add on higher delivery charges to reach them, leading to huge differences in what people pay.

However, petrol stations in Worcestershire were cautious over the plan, particularly if the county missed out but Herefordshire was included.

Roy Devlia, who runs Powick Service Station, said: “I would be concerned if Herefordshire get this but we don’t – people will just drive over the border and fill up.

"I think we should all get a reduction, that way we all benefit. What people have to remember is, we pay insurance, rates, many bills, and our margins aren’t going up.”

Tesco at St Peter’s Drive, Worcester, was charging £1.37p per litre of petrol and £1.42p for diesel yesterday, while at Worcester Service Station in Henwick Road, St John’s, prices were £1.36 and £1.41.

Danny Alexander, chief secretary to the Treasury, said: “I would urge local areas that may qualify to provide the information we need to make the case as robust as possible.”

West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin is asking her constituents to contact her if they see any evidence of unfair prices.

How would it work?

DRIVERS in the Scottish islands already pay less fuel duty than other parts of the UK, as part of a policy to prevent rural motorists being slapped with a premium when filling up.
The Treasury has now revealed it wants to extend the offer to remote or rural parts of England and Wales, and is asking for evidence from drivers in 35 counties.
Counties invited to take part include Herefordshire, Monmouthshire, Cornwall and Devon, as well as Wales and north Yorkshire.
Areas such as Worcestershire are not ruled out, but evidence would be needed that prices in parts of the county are particularly high.
Ministers will then apply to the European Commission to extend the fuel rebate scheme, with duty cut at the pumps, and retailers able to claim back lost revenue from HMRC.

What are the savings if you travel to Herefordshire?

Cost to fill a 40-litre tank at £1.37 per litre: £54.80
Cost at £1.32 per litre: £52.80
Saving: £2

BUT after a 30-mile round trip from Worcester to Bromyard, Herefordshire, to fill up:
Cost of fuel for journey (at 40 mpg): £1.56
Saving: 44p