Britain imported no fuel from Russia for the first time in June, according to official data.
The UK’s imports of all goods from the sanctioned state fell to their lowest level as restrictions were imposed on Russian firms and individuals, Office for National Statistics figures showed.
Just £33million of goods were imported from Russia in June, down 96.6 per cent compared with the average monthly rate before the invasion of Ukraine.
Sanctions: A protester waves a placard during an Ukrainian Independence Day rally outside Downing Street, in London. Britain imported no fuel from Russia for the first time in June
There were no imports of gas, oil and coal. In 2021, Russia was the country’s largest supplier of refined oil.
But, since president Vladimir Putin attacked Ukraine, the Government has banned the import of certain products and hiked tariffs on others.
Businesses have tried to avoid trade with Russia, fearing for their reputation. But it has come at a cost, as fuel prices have shot up, pushing up costs.
According to a survey of accountants, from trade body the ICAEW, business confidence in the UK has hit minus-5, the first negative reading since the pandemic hit.
The British Chambers of Commerce has called for help with energy bills.
Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said UK gas production rose 26 per cent in the first half of 2022, boosting energy security.
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