Mr Cox said: “Some garages are now really drying up. It’s very patchy, it’s sporadic but it’s still an issue, particularly in the South. Most of the protests are happening below the Midlands and in the Home Counties, and that’s where we’re seeing some of the problems.
“Above the Midlands in the North, in Scotland and Northern Ireland there’s no problems whatsoever. Their garages are full of fuel.”
On Monday, Downing Street condemned the “guerrilla tactics” used to target oil supplies. Mr Cox said he supported Labour’s call for the Government to seek an immediate, nationwide injunction to stop the protests. He also wants “more police” at the sites to keep the fuel supply chain “secure and protected”.
The protestors have been campaigning against the use of oil in various locations in Thurrock. In recent weeks, the climate group Just Stop Oil has staged a number of protests at Premier League football matches, including one where a protestor tied himself to a goalpost. Following the protests, Essex Police have arrested more than 350 protestors since the disruptions started on April 1.
The RAC has estimated some 21.5m leisure trips will be made by car between Good Friday and Easter Monday. This is the second week of protests at oil terminals by Just Stop Oil. More than 350 protesters have been arrested since the disruption started on April 1.
In a statement, Just Stop Oil said: “The Government can end the queues and closures at petrol station forecourts immediately, ahead of the Easter holidays, by committing to halt all new oil licences and consents. Ministers have a choice: they can arrest and imprison Just Stop Oil supporters or agree to no new oil and gas.
“While Just Stop Oil supporters have their liberty the disruption will continue. Now is the moment to come and meet with the coalition.”
