Britain’s government, led by the Chancellor, plans to unveil measures to shield consumers from unfair price rises amid the Middle East crisis, including an anti-profiteering framework and expanded powers for the Competition and Markets Authority to curb price gouging.

There is consideration of time-limited, targeted powers for the CMA, with the Treasury and other departments collaborating on what those powers could entail.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has previously called for the CMA to have “further teeth” to combat profiteering and has discussed targeted powers to address price gouging during the crisis.

Iran-related tensions continue to shape markets, with mixed signals from international actors about how long the volatility may last.

The AA reports adequate fuel stocks and no immediate supply concerns, advising motorists to fill up as normal and to use price-tracking resources.

Despite tensions, fuel stocks remain robust and there are no immediate breakdowns, with guidance to use price-comparison tools to find best prices.

There are no fuel supply problems on the horizon, and drivers are urged to refuel normally while monitoring prices via tracking apps.

The Prime Minister signaled a resolved delay in defence investment decisions and openness to closer EU defence cooperation in the future.

Reeves is expected to advocate for a diverse energy mix to stabilize volatile fossil fuel markets and to remove barriers to expanding Britain’s nuclear power capacity.

The government is exploring government-backed indemnities for critical energy security projects to keep construction moving despite legal challenges.

Recent data show sharp fuel price increases, with unleaded petrol and diesel rising and forecasts predicting further hikes ahead of Easter, driven by Middle East tensions and oil prices.

Leaders emphasize shielding consumers from inflated fuel and grocery costs, reaffirming a commitment to keeping living costs down during volatile times.