In addition to setting up the Fuel Task Force, we have also held a number of meetings with oil company representatives, the trades unions and representatives of the food and other industries affected by the protests. And Ministers have also visited all the main fuel refineries and depots to talk at first hand to the tanker drivers, company managers, police and others about the lessons to be learned from the protests. As a result, I think that no one can fairly say that we have not made every effort to listen to people s concerns, and of course in the days which remain before the Chancellor s statement we shall continue to do so. Let me now explain to the House why it is so important to make proper preparations to protect people, industry and services as so far as possible against further disruption. The United Kingdom now has the fourth largest economy in the world.
Employment is at record levels and inflation is the lowest in Europe.
Whatever the motives of those involved, the disruption which took place in September very nearly caused serious damage to our economy. The British Chamber of Commerce has published details of the effect of the disruption on the commercial activities of its members across the country. In Peter borough, almost four in ten firms reported they d suffered lost sales and 16 per cent had to close temporarily. Many other companies suffered financial problems and lost orders. Later today I will be placing in the library a report summarising information available to Government departments about the impact of the disruption.