Fuel can sales soar 160%

Motorists panic-buying fuel after comments made by Cabinet Minister Francis Maude have helped sales of fuel cans soar by up to 160% at Wilco Motor Spares stores.

Wilco Motor Spares’ Director Richard Shortis said: “Our stores have seen a dramatic rise in the number of fuel cans being sold. We are rushing extra stock into our stores to cope with the increased demand.”

Despite being told not to panic, it seems motorists are doing just that after Francis Maude said: “When it makes sense, a bit of extra fuel in a jerry can in the garage is a sensible precaution to take.”

Shortis points out that motorists are limited to five litres in a plastic can, or ten in a metal design, while a jerry can carries 20 litres.

Blockades 13 years ago closed 3000 fuel forecourts across the country and left many stranded. Unions threatening action this year have not even yet named a date for when they may strike.