Ministers are intensifying efforts to prepare for potential shortages arising from the Iran conflict. The closure of the critical Strait of Hormuz, which previously transported one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas, has led to a significant surge in oil prices following the commencement of the US-Israel war on Iran.
Keir Starmer is set to lead a meeting of the Cabinet committee addressing the crisis, following a previous gathering of the Middle East Response Committee. A group of ministers, led by Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones, is convening twice weekly to strategize contingency plans.
Discussions are centered on monitoring stock levels and devising strategies to manage supply chain disruptions. The public is advised to maintain normal petrol usage and travel routines, without altering plans due to concerns about potential jet fuel shortages.
Mr. Jones emphasized that the conflict is not the UK’s, affirming the government’s decision to refrain from direct involvement and focus on defensive measures to safeguard national interests. Preparations are underway to mitigate the conflict’s economic and security impacts.
The Prime Minister is advocating for the prompt reopening of the toll-free Strait of Hormuz, with the UK collaborating closely with international partners to find a lasting resolution and minimize the crisis’s repercussions on households.
UK airlines reassure that there is currently no shortage of jet fuel as they procure in advance and airports uphold sufficient stocks. The government is closely monitoring jet fuel reserves and ensuring flexibility for airlines to cancel flights if fuel shortages impede operations without risking the loss of allocated slots.
Supermarkets are collaborating with the government to plan for potential shortages of carbon dioxide, crucial for food producers, in a worst-case scenario resulting from the ongoing conflict.