Issue Date:  -  Tuesday, 2 July 2002

FuelWatch successful in legal proceedings against BP.

Assistant Prices Commissioner, Barbara Macnish, welcomed the Perth Magistrate’s Court decision yesterday which found BP guilty of not displaying terminal prices under WA’s Petroleum Products Pricing Act 1983.

“We’re very pleased to have had success against BP in this matter,” she said.

“BP was fined a total of $4,500 plus costs. The message is clear that we’re watching the oil companies and doing everything we can to ensure motorists get a fair deal,” she said.

“The Government has increased the penalties and offences committed since 1 January 2002 will attract penalties of up to $100,000. This means that if a future offence is committed, oil companies will face significantly higher fines,” Ms Macnish said.

“Part lllA of the Act is intended to establish a true Terminal Gate Price system in WA. Under these provisions BP is required to display spot prices for each type of motor fuel supplied from its Kewdale terminal, including the weighted average price for each product and any maximum price.”

The legislation seeks to increase transparency at the wholesale level of fuel marketing in WA, benefiting retailers and, ultimately, consumers.

DOCEP is also currently prosecuting BP for two alleged breaches of section 19(1) of the Act in relation to a refusal to supply fuel at the Maximum Wholesale Price.

A hearing date in relation to this matter is set for 16 October 2002.