The article reports that higher petrol prices linked to the Iran war have increased VAT receipts from drivers by an estimated £1 billion. It argues this matters because households are paying more at the pumps while the Government is still expected to raise fuel duty in the New Year.

The report attributes the additional revenue to VAT rising in cash terms as fuel prices increase, alongside the existing fuel-duty charge. It says the expected duty rise would add further pressure to motorists, although the supplied text gives no detailed figures on the proposed increase.