Chancellor John Healey is accused of a 'shameless tax raid' as he plots a 'green tax' on imported fuel

Drivers have already paid an extra £10billion at the pumps since the Iran war sent prices soaring, and diesel topped £2 a litre for the first time this month. Now the Chancellor could hit imported petrol and diesel with net-zero charges in Wednesday's Budget. TaxPayers' Alliance chief John O'Connell calls the levy 'little more than a tariff'. Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh is thought to back the plan.

Paymaster general James Murray said ministers are 'considering the feasibility and impacts' of the charge.

O'Connell urged PM Andy Burnham to rule out 'punitive green taxes' in the Budget.

The fuel duty freeze ends on 31 December, and no extension has been confirmed.