HEREFORD and South Herefordshire MP Jesse Norman has described Government plans to reduce fuel duty in Herefordshire as 'a sign that the Government is listening to our concerns' and has vowed to support the scheme 'to the hilt'.

Last week, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Danny Alexander announced that the Government is seeking information on pricing from fuel retailers in 36 rural areas, including Herefordshire. The aim is to build a case for EU approval of a major extension to the current rebate scheme which already reduces fuel duty in some of the most remote parts of the UK, such as the Outer Hebrides.

Drivers have long complained that filling up their tank is more expensive locally than in other areas. This week unleaded petrol cost between 137.9p to 142.9p per litre locally but only cost 133.9p in Pontypool.

Read the full story in this week's Ross Gazette.