New figures have shown that Sutherland is among the hardest hit areas in the UK for fuel prices, with some of the highest costs recorded in the country.
Data from Fuel Finder, published by Sky News, reveals that seven of the ten most expensive locations for diesel are in Scotland, including a peak price of £2.29 per litre in Bettyhill.
The figures highlight the growing pressure on rural communities, where reliance on cars is often essential due to long distances and limited transport options.
For many households across Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, rising fuel costs are adding to wider cost of living pressures already being felt.
Maree Todd said:
“These figures show just how severely rising fuel costs are affecting people in Sutherland, who are now paying the highest prices in the country.
“It is an absolute scandal.
“In areas like Sutherland, and across many parts of this constituency, using a car isn’t optional, people often have to travel long distances, and they are paying heavily for it at the pumps.
“Labour have let the cost-of-living spiral out of control, the cost of fuel and food has gone through the roof, energy bills will soon be £700 higher than promised, inflation is up 50%, mortgage rates are rising, UK unemployment is at a five-year high and families are struggling to get by.
“Once again, families in Scotland are paying the highest price for Labour Party failure.
“Despite Labour’s shoddy record, the Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton has made clear his ambition to become Deputy First Minister by propping up a minority Labour Government in Scotland.
“The SNP has delivered the most comprehensive cost-of-living support anywhere in the UK, we cannot afford to let in a government that takes its orders from Keir Starmer, who refuses to act on the soaring cost of living.
“The SNP will always be on Scotland’s side.
“On the 7th of May, make it both votes SNP.”
The data reinforces concerns about the disproportionate impact of fuel prices in rural Scotland, where geography and infrastructure leave communities with fewer alternatives.
As costs continue to rise, the issue is expected to remain central to the political debate in the run up to the election.
