Across South West Devon , rising fuel and energy costs are hitting families, farmers, haulage drivers, park home residents, fishermen and pensioners in their pockets.
That’s why I’ve been working on this issue at every level:
In Parliament, my Conservative colleagues and I have pushed back on the Government’s plans to raise fuel duty, using an opposition day vote in the hope of blocking the planned hike this September, helping to protect drivers and rural households from yet more rising costs. Sadly, Labour and the Greens voted against, supporting higher fuel duty that will hit motorists and rural communities the hardest. Reform also didn’t even turn up to the debate or vote.
I’ve written to DEFRA to push for urgent action for our fishing communities after the Government said they’d “monitor” diesel prices, but taking little real action to protect livelihoods.
I’ve been in contact with park home communities to hear directly how rising LPG costs are making heating and basic living unaffordable for many residents.
I’ve written to the Leaders of Devon County Council, Plymouth City Council and South Hams District Council to ensure they are preparing effectively for the Government’s forthcoming support package for heating oil costs, due to be released on 1st April 2026, and that support reaches those who need it most, particularly those households that are off‑grid. However, I am concerned that support is only going to be targeted to those on benefits and I will keep challenging this.
I am going to keep pushing the Government to act so that we lower costs, safeguard jobs, and ensure no one is left struggling to heat their home or get to work.
