Well, the petrol lorry drivers (the guys who deliver petrol….tanker truck drivers) voted yesterday to go on strike. No one is sure when it will happen; however, everyone expects it to happen around the Easter holiday (that happens to be a 4 day weekend here). I think the best quote ever came from this page on the Telegraph’s website (if it isn’t at the top of the page, scroll down to the 11:50 entry):
More advice from the Government on the UK fuel strike – they don’t want to cause panic, but Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude has advised motorists to keep a jerry can of fuel in their garage, and the Prime Minister has suggested topping up your tank when you have the chance. Mr Maude doesn’t want to see anyone “rushing around in a mad dash” – only mild, restrained panic please.
I find that hillarious. no need for mad dashes….just semi-hurried dashes. As No. 10 has advised people to make plans….. How are people supposed to take it?
Oh, before anyone asks, we are taking precautions. They don’t have many 20l jerrycans here so I bought a few 5l ones. 10l of fuel won’t get us far but will get us to the hospital or airport in an emergency. We also plan to keep our tank topped up (daily if needed).
[Update 2012-03-30 06:53:35] Am I “panic buying” fuel? Where is the “I’m being a responsible citizen/resident” option?
[Update 2012-03-31 08:16:36] Now there are calls for rationing so 999 drivers and emergency services can get the fuel the need.
[Update 2012-04-19 09:36:06] There was an agreement; however, the union has rejected it. No strike news yet.
Image from didbygraham via flickr