The Kent-based Freight Transport Association has welcomed the suggestion that fuel duty may not go up in April as planned.

Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne said yesterday he was looking at the plan by his predeceesor Alistair Darling to raise the rate by 1p a litre, in addition to inflation on April 1, and could override it. But he would not confirm any decision until the Budget on March 23.

If the proposed duty rise goes ahead, it could, - with inflation - increase the cost of a litre by 5p.

The FHA, based in Tunbridge Wells, and its partner the Road Haulage Association said Mr Osborne's comments were encouraging.

FTA chief executive Theo de Pencier said: "We welcome Mr Osborne's public support for scrapping the fuel duty rise but we want more than just warm words from the Chancellor for the sake of UK businesses and the country's economic recovery. We look forward to seeing the small print."

RHA chief executive Geoff Dunning added: "It proves beyond doubt that the noise we have been making on this issue has not fallen on deaf ears."

However, a duty freeze could only be regarded as a "short term fix." "If we are to stand any chance of long term growth it is essential that we see a long term solution to this problem."

Kent hauliers have been at the forefront of a campaign against soaring fuel prices.