Why did minister start petrol panic? Petrol stations run dry after Francis Maude urges drivers to fill up any spare jerry cans

The Government faced a barrage of anger tonight after a minister's advice to start stockpiling petrol ahead of a possible tanker driver strike prompted forecourts to close following a rush to the pumps.


Stations began running dry after Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude suggested motorists fill up any spare jerry cans - even though the walkout may not begin for two weeks.


Brian Madderson, chairman of RMI Petrol which represents petrol station retailers, said the government's message was 'totally, totally irresponsible, inept'.        More Read