Uncertainty caused by the forthcoming referendum on EU membership is affecting the forecourt sector, according to Ramsay MacDonald, retail director of Certas Energy.

He warned: “The EU debate seems to be dragging on forever with few signs of real quality information. The uncertainty seems to be affecting business and this is evident in the forecourt sector with some independent dealers delaying new contracts and other commitments.

“I hope that whatever the outcome, the result is decisive and we all move on. It could be close, especially if the turnout is low, so I would encourage everyone to vote.

“It is not possible to make long-term predictions with any degree of accuracy but I do accept the view of most economists that our currency could devalue in the short term should we vote to leave. I would hope that the Government has a contingency in place to counter any fall-out and the stability of pump prices is high on its agenda.”