The figures, released in response to a parliamentary question from SNP MSP Nigel Don, demonstrate a considerable escalation in costs over the last eight years.  Fuel expenses for police increased from just over £5m in 1999/2000 to an estimated £7.5m this year while costs for the fire service have risen from £1.3m to £2.3m over the same period.  Likewise the ambulance service has undergone a rise from £2.8m in 1998/99 to £5.6m last year. 

In response to the figures, the North East MSP has written to the Chancellor calling on him to protect emergency services against the impact of rising fuel costs and ensure that resources are not diverted from frontline care and emergency provision as a result.

Commenting on the figures Don said:  

“These figures show for the first time the impact rising oil prices are having on our emergency services.

“Every penny going on rising prices is a penny not going to frontline emergency care and protection.

“I will be writing to Alastair Darling to see what action is being taken and what he will do alleviate the financial burden on the emergency services of these rising costs.

“Action must be taken to bring rising fuel prices under control. A fuel price regulator will help by bringing taxation into line with rising prices, however for emergency services to be hit by the soaring cost of fuel regardless of taxation is ridiculous.”