LIVE: Smoke rises above Bahrain international airport

Starmer says Government will ‘step in’ to protect Brits from profiteering

Sir Keir Starmer has issued a stern warning to the government, emphasizing that profiteering or unfair practices in the wake of climbing oil prices will not be tolerated.

The Prime Minister has made it clear that he is prepared to take action if companies exploit the situation in the Middle East to overcharge customers.

Oil prices have surged following Iran’s retaliatory strikes, which came after US and Israeli attacks. This has led to an increase in energy costs, significantly impacting home heating oil bills.

During a visit to Northern Ireland, the Prime Minister remarked that “global instability has tangible effects on the everyday lives of people across the UK.”

Tensions with Tehran have disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for international oil and gas supplies.

On Wednesday, the International Energy Agency announced plans to release 400 million barrels of oil into global markets, with 13.5 million barrels coming from the UK, aiming to mitigate short-term market disruptions.

Prices reached near four-year highs above 100 US dollars a barrel on Monday, before falling on Tuesday as US President Donald Trump signalled the war could soon be over.

Early on Thursday, the price of Brent crude oil – the international benchmark – topped 100 dollars per barrel (£74), while the US crude oil price rose to about 95 dollars (£71) a barrel.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 11: Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer leaves 10 Downing Street to attend PMQs on March 11, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Carl Court/Getty Images)
You May Also Like

Trump Woos France’s First Couple at Versailles in High-Profile Diplomatic Visit

President Donald Trump struck a warm tone Wednesday evening as he arrived…

Insider Reveals Serious Health Issue Behind Messi’s Emotional Tears

Lionel Messi’s emotional World Cup moment was reportedly linked to a major…

‘Thugs in Uniform’ Chief Bought £3m Mansion Complete With Private Gym and Sauna

A private enforcement industry built on littering fines and other fixed penalties…

Newsom and Vance Clash as Talk of a Potential 2028 Race Grows

California Gov. Gavin Newsom sharpened his attacks on JD Vance on Wednesday,…

Kaleb Cooper Speaks Out After Jeremy Clarkson Reveals Cancer Diagnosis

Kaleb Cooper has spoken publicly for the first time since his close…

Brazil to Demolish 130-Foot Bridge Linked to Student’s Fatal Fall

A 130-foot bridge where a young woman was thrown to her death…

England WAGs Unite in the Stands as Three Lions Face Croatia at the World Cup

England’s WAGs were in full voice at Dallas stadium on Tuesday night…

Court Clerks Accused of Helping Migrants Evade ICE Through Back Door Exit

Two Utah court clerks are accused of making obscene gestures toward security…

8 Prostate Cancer Warning Signs Men Shouldn’t Ignore — Including Risks Highlighted by Jeremy Clarkson

“I’ve got cancer.” The quietly delivered admission from Jeremy Clarkson at the…

Brooklyn Beckham Quips He “Gave Away” His World Cup Tickets in Apparent Swipe

Brooklyn Beckham appears to have taken another pointed jab at his estranged…

England open World Cup campaign with convincing 4-2 win over Croatia

England supporters on both sides of the Atlantic were in full voice…

How the NYPD Is Preparing for a Historic New York Knicks Parade Like Never Before

New York has endured hurricanes, public health crises and even attacks from…