**UK Engages US in Talks to Prevent Diesel Export Ban Amid Rising Prices**
*28 September 2026*
The United Kingdom is currently in discussions with U.S. authorities regarding a potential ban on diesel exports, as the country grapples with soaring fuel prices. Chancellor John Healey confirmed the ongoing negotiations during an interview with BBC News, highlighting the urgency of the situation as diesel prices in the UK reached a record high earlier this week.
On Monday, the average price for a litre of diesel in the UK hit 199.18 pence, surpassing the previous peak of 191.5 pence recorded in June 2022, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The escalating prices are attributed to global supply pressures, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran, as well as the war in Ukraine. Petrol prices have also been on the rise, with a litre currently costing 174.13 pence.
Chancellor Healey acknowledged the "extreme" nature of current diesel prices and noted that the UK relies on the U.S. for approximately one-third of its diesel imports. The potential ban on diesel exports, which U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted at, could further inflate prices in the UK. Trump stated over the weekend, "We're thinking about it very seriously," indicating that the administration is considering the ban as a means to alleviate domestic fuel costs ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
Healey emphasized the importance of working closely with American officials to find a resolution to the crisis. "We work very closely with the Americans," he said, adding that the UK is preparing for the possibility of a ban by ensuring that it has sufficient diesel stocks. "We may need to," he said, referring to the UK's preparations.
The Chancellor underscored the need for a diplomatic solution to the conflicts in the Middle East, which he believes are contributing to the current pressures on fuel prices. "Fundamentally, what we need is a settlement in the Middle East. We need an easing of the pressure of costs on business, the costs on households, and on ordinary families that we see at the pumps in the most extreme level today for diesel," Healey stated.
The situation has prompted the RAC, a leading motoring organization in the UK, to describe the current diesel prices as entering "uncharted territory." They highlighted the vulnerability of the UK to international events that disrupt oil production and transportation, which in turn affect fuel prices domestically.
As the UK government prepares for a "breathing space" Budget scheduled for 28 October, the Chancellor is acutely aware of the cost-of-living pressures facing households. The freeze on fuel duty, initially implemented by the Conservative government in 2022, is set to expire at the end of the year, with planned increases of 3 pence in January and an additional 2 pence in March. These changes could further impact the prices consumers face at the pump.
The UK government is keen to mitigate the effects of rising fuel prices on its citizens and businesses. However, the outcome of negotiations with the U.S. and the actions taken by the Trump administration will play a critical role in shaping the future of diesel availability and pricing in the UK.
As discussions continue, the UK government remains hopeful for a resolution that could stabilize the situation and ease the financial burden on families and businesses alike. The ongoing geopolitical tensions and their impact on global fuel markets underscore the interconnectedness of international relations and domestic economic stability.