To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any additional financial support her Department will bring forward to assist (i) businesses; and (ii) the farming sector, affected by rising fuel costs.

I recognise the very real pressures facing businesses here as a result of rising fuel prices, driven by ongoing volatility in global energy markets and continuing instability in the Middle East.

Fuel prices are largely determined by international markets and British‑wide taxation, which places clear limits on what the Executive can directly influence.

I have been clear that urgent action is required to protect businesses and the agriculture sector and have called on the British Government to reduce fuel duty as a matter of urgency.

I am also meeting regularly with the Ministers from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Michael Shanks and Martin McCluskey to press for urgent additional support with energy costs.

As you will be aware, responsibility for supporting the farming sector lies with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).