An increase in fuel tax will cost the average motorist an extra pound every time they fill up at the pumps.

The tax, which has already come into force means drivers are paying an extra 2.12p per litre of petrol.

AA President Edmund King has warned that the increase in duty would be harmful to the economy long term.

"These April fuel increases are no joke," he said.

"It's a shame that this and other fuel tax increases will severely dent consumer spending and undermine the UK's economic recovery.

"Taking an extra £1 off drivers each time they fill up their fuel tank is a £1 taken away from High Street and leisure spending that would help revive the economy."

Further increases are likely when Alistair Darling presents his Budget to the House of Commons on April 22.

With many haulage and logistic firms already struggling to cover costs, it is feared that the latest increases could tip some over the edge.

Is it right that fuel duty continues to rise during a reccession?

Is a fuel tax increase the right way to get the country thinking green?

What is more important, the economy or the environment?

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