Upper Bann DUP MP Carla Lockhart has tabled an Early Day Motion in Parliament on rising global oil prices and their impact on the cost of living in the United Kingdom. She highlighted particular vulnerability for Northern Ireland households due to reliance on heating oil.

Lockhart stated that oil prices are rising sharply with clear effects on household budgets. She noted that motorists feel the impact at fuel pumps and families face higher energy costs.

A large proportion of homes in Northern Ireland use heating oil for warmth. Global price spikes affect family budgets immediately in the region.

The average price for 500 litres of home heating oil increased 81% in a week to £556 from £307. For 900 litres, the price rose to £948 from £536. The Consumer Council for Northern Ireland recorded these figures on 5 March.

Lockhart called on the Treasury to cut fuel duty and remove VAT on domestic heating oil for immediate relief to families and motorists. She urged measures to protect households from unfair price increases by energy companies and to tax excessive profits for support funding.

About 500,000 homes in Northern Ireland use heating oil and 284,000 use natural gas.