Budget 2012: How motoring groups reacted

THE price of petrol will go up by around three pence a litre later this summer, motoring groups have warned this week after Chancellor George Osborne announced his Budget.

Among the changes the Conservative/Lib Dem Coalition announced this week were changes to car fuel benefit charges, a revision of how car company tax operates, and the announcement that the price of fuel will go up by around three pence in August.

Here's how a wide variety of motoring groups reacted to the announcements in the Commons:

"A free-flowing national network cannot be built without proper road charging. If the Prime Minister's advisors have not told him this simple fact he needs to replace them with people who understand the problem.
"A true leader will explain to motorists that we cannot expect a first-class strategic road network without paying for it."
- Environmental Transport Association

"The Chancellor has squandered a very real opportunity to support UK industry, jobs and economic recovery, by his Budget policy on fuel duty.
"Mr Osborne has lost an opportunity to benefit every household in the UK and he must be persuaded to change his policy."
- Freight Transport Association

“Future changes in company car tax rates and capital allowances will drive fleet managers and drivers into lower emission cars at a faster rate.
"We are, however, disappointed that the Chancellor has decided to press ahead with the August 1, 2012 3.02p per litre rise in fuel duty."
- The Association of Car Fleet Operators

“The Chancellor’s actions to improve research and development tax credits and develop a catapult for transport systems and future cities will help trigger substantial extra business investment in the years ahead."
"The UK automotive industry is attracting major levels of investment and creating real opportunities for engineering and manufacturing businesses."
- Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders

"At a time of record prices at the pumps the August increase in duty is a budget blow-out which will force drivers off the road and could bring a summer of discontent for many."
- AA

"George Osborne said that taxes should be fair, simple, predictable and support work. Motoring tax fails on at least three of these measures and it is time for a review of exactly what fuel duty is for and who it impacts most." - The RAC Foundation

Do you think the 2012 Budget has helped or hindered motorists? Share your thoughts by sending an email to david.simister@champnews.com or call 01704 392404.