Speed restrictions to reduce fuel consumption could also be imposed under the government's National Emergency Plan for Fuel.

It comes as the price of diesel hit a record high in the UK, topping £2 a litre at some forecourts.

The average price at the pump stands at 199.35p per litre, according to the RAC, surpassing the previous record set in 2022 after Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Average UK price of diesel (Image: PA Wire)

The Road Haulage Association (RHA), which represents HGV, coach and van operators, said people in rural Norfolk – who rely on their vehicles to get around the county – could be disproportionately affected by the emergency fuel-saving measures compared to motorists in other parts of the country.

Prime minister Andy Burnham said the government is considering "every possible measure" to cut fuel costs, with the RAC warning that filling an average family car now costs nearly £110 – representing a £31 increase since the start of the US-Iran war in February.

This week, former BP executive Nick Butler warned "restraints" on the use of diesel could be put in place for drivers this winter.

He said the government has "a duty to protect key sectors", such as food producers and the NHS, over ordinary motorists.

When asked if it could lead to fuel rationing, he said: "Yes. If there’s a shortage, and if you have to protect key sectors, then there's less for everyone else.

"I think it would be unfair to do it on just rationing by price, so that only those who can........

© Eastern Daily Press