Between 1996 and 2001 the average family motorists' annual tax bill increased by around £200 to cover fuel tax increases alone.

Around 67% of the price you pay for fuel goes straight to the government, about 6% goes to the wholesaler and retailer.

The government gets around 300% mark up on every litre of petrol or diesel you buy.

Fuel prices here are second highest in Europe and probably the second highest in the world.

The highly respected social research charity, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation says motoring taxes and charges are hitting hardest at the poorest families in Britain. Running a car can account for as much as 24% - almost a quarter - of their total family budgets.

Those on lower incomes would be worst off if they tried to live without a car. Employment opportunities and quality of life would be "severely damaged" says the study. (source Joseph Rowntree Foundation)

All the evidence says that the consumption of petrol and diesel is unrelated to price. The pretence that punitive fuel tax is related to fuel consumption and pollution is therefore is flawed. It is an easy way to raise taxes from road users made to feel guilty about their use of vehicles!