An MP has written to the head of the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) asking them to investigate the price of petrol across Merseyside.

Frank Field said he has been contacted by several drivers in his Birkenhead constituency expressing concern about petrol prices in the town, and claiming some garages had increased prices by up to 10ppl in 10 days.

Field wrote to the CMA saying: “I understand that most garages operate on a freehold basis and are reasonably free to charge what they wish.

“But my constituents are concerned that Birkenhead’s garages are charging more per litre than those elsewhere in Merseyside.

“Might I please ask whether you would consider looking into this matter, to ensure my constituents aren’t being penalised for buying petrol in Birkenhead?”