THE area's parliamentary politicians are demanding action from the UK Government over spiralling fuel costs - saying locals are being ‘robbed’ by fuel stations and ‘ripped off’ by oil companies.

Ronnie Cowan, MP for Inverclyde, says motorists here are being ‘fleeced' on the forecourts.

He said: “Inverclyde has pockets of high deprivation and it is unacceptable that we are being ripped off while oil companies enjoy record profits.

“The SNP have for some time being calling on the chancellor to scrap VAT on petrol and diesel, which would lead to a direct reduction in the cost at the pumps.

“Beyond that it would appear that Inverclyde is paying more for fuel than other areas and I have contacted the retailers to find out why and shall be following this up at the earliest opportunity.”

MSP for Inverclyde Stuart McMillan wants standardised fuel pump prices across Scotland to ensure a level playing field.

He added: "At least Dick Turpin wore a mask when he was robbing people, unlike Tesco, BP and Morrisons with regards to their fuel prices.

“I raised this with the Finance Secretary Kate Forbes in March but she said standardised fuel pump prices across Scotland was not something the Scottish Government could explore, as matters relating to fuel and energy are reserved to the UK Government.

“I have written to her again to ask for an update on discussions she has had with the chancellor on this issue, I agree that something needs to be done."