Written question WQ98648
- Asked by
- Sarah Cooper-LesaddReform
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 15 days
Question
What assessment has the Welsh Government made of the impact on Welsh supply chains following reports that UK sanctions on Russian oil have been eased?
Answer
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy (Adam Price)
The implementation of sanctions is a reserved matter and the responsibility of UKG.
The UK Government has not eased sanctions on imports of diesel and jet fuel made from Russian oil in third countries, rather it has paused the rate of implementation due to start in May. The stated purpose of this pause is to provide UK companies with greater flexibility when purchasing these products from global markets, due to recent supply disruption caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
We understand that the government now plans to "phase in” the ban in the coming months. The rules will be reviewed regularly and "will allow for the full ban to be phased in without causing instability" amid the fuel supply shock stemming from the Middle East conflict.
The UK Government has not provided an assessment as to the impact this will have on UK prices and supply. Given there is also uncertainty as to how long the general trade license will be in effect, it is not possible for the Welsh Government to make a detailed assessment as to the impacts of this policy on Welsh supply chains.
The availability and cost of jet fuel and diesel are essential to the operation of our economy and its supply chains. We will monitor the situation as it develops and engage with stakeholders to support market stability as far as is possible in this fast-evolving position.