Refinery closure may cause fuel shortage

Bankruptcy fears could lead to petrol shortages for new drivers taking to the roads in south-east England.

The concerns follow the announcement that Petroplus, an oil refiner based in Switzerland, has become insolvent. Petroplus is the parent company of the Coryton refinery in Essex, which has now been forced to halt its supplies.

A lengthy closure of the supplier could result in localised petrol shortages, as the Essex site provides roughly 20% of the south-east region's fuel.

Along with fears about the impact of petrol shortages as a result of the refinery's closure, concerns have arisen about the jobs of 1,000 workers.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, East of England MEP Richard Howitt said: "Supplies across London and the South East could be affected, and I have been told this could impact the Olympics."

Petroplus said it was forced to take action after its creditors refused to extend loan repayment deadlines.

Copyright Press Association 2012



Panic over - the refinery has now been re-opened by the Administrator - looks like the Olympics are safe. Ed