The union representing fuel tanker drivers today ruled out the threat of strike action being taken over Easter, but they warned action could still happen.

Officials at Unite, which represents around 2,000 tanker drivers, said they wanted to focus on peace talks but they have the right to call for industrial action if the talks, which are due to start next week, break down.

Assistant general secretary Diana Holland said: “This is not a political dispute. It is an industrial dispute and the Government’s recent rhetoric will not help us achieve a negotiated settlement.”

Motorists in Ipswich rushed to the pumps this morning because of the threat of action and some stations have already run out of fuel, including BP in Norwich Road and Shell garage in London Road. Both stations have said they hope to have more fuel by this afternoon.

Workers near a station in Ellenbrook Green have also said they have seen large queues forming in the last few days.

Ian Deans, 57, who is helping with roadworks, added: “People are still queuing up here and there are roadworks going on in the area.”

? Are you caught up in queues for fuel? Contact the newsroom on 01473 324788.