Former BP strategist Nick Butler has issued a stark warning to UK ministers about a looming fuel crisis caused by the ongoing conflict in the Strait of Hormuz. He cautioned that global oil supplies could be reduced by as much as 20%, leading to serious fuel shortages across the UK.
Butler, who previously served as a top adviser to former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, criticised the UK Government for not preparing adequately for what he described as a “really serious potential shortage” if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed amid escalating tensions.
Speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Butler said, “If supplies are cut by 20 per cent, then someone has to use 20 per cent less. The Government must protect critical services like food supply, the NHS, and schools – then work out how to ration fuel for everyone else.”
To avoid total chaos, Butler recommended bold measures including introducing licence plate-based driving restrictions on alternate days, reducing commuter traffic through four-day working weeks, and cracking down on fuel price gouging with strict consumer protection audits.
He also urged ministers to calm the market and prevent panic buying before it escalates. Butler dismissed the idea of old-fashioned ration coupons, instead pointing to innovative approaches such as extra public holidays used in some Far East countries to gently reduce fuel consumption.
The crisis is expected to be prolonged due to damage to key oil facilities. Military strikes have hit major refineries and disabled Qatar’s vital gas terminal, meaning repairs will take time. Butler warned that increasing North Sea oil production will not provide an immediate solution.
He concluded by stressing the urgency for the Government to outline a clear plan to manage shortages if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, stating, “Panic buying would be a disaster.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
