President Donald Trump says his administration is seriously considering banning US diesel exports, reversing earlier statements from senior officials that the idea was off the table. The proposal is intended to respond to surging fuel costs, but Republican lawmakers and oil industry figures warn it could worsen the pressures facing consumers and producers.

US diesel has reached about $6.50 a gallon, nearly $3 more than a year ago, while regular petrol averages $4.48, up from $4.09 a month earlier, according to AAA. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has warned that restricting exports could push up petrol and jet fuel prices and force refineries to cut production; the article attributes recent price rises to conflict-related damage to energy facilities and supply restrictions. The political debate comes as the article reports Democrats’ chances of taking control of Congress in November have risen sharply.