UPDATE: RAC reacts to current fuel shortage in France

RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said: “The RAC is not recommending that motorists take additional fuel in cans when they travel to France for very obvious safety reasons. We would advise that fuel cans are useful for carrying petrol or diesel on short journeys when you have an urgent need but they are not recommended for prolonged journeys and certainly not when your car is going to be in confined space on a ferry or on a train.

“The French authorities only permit motorists to bring 10 litres of additional fuel with them when they enter the country. This is only enough to drive around 70 to 100 miles depending on your vehicle’s fuel economy and therefore may not be that helpful for holidaymakers who are driving long distances.

“The French Government is committed to finding a swift resolution to the fuel issue. Even though fuel stations do have supplies of petrol and diesel, motorists should expect delays and rationing in the next few days.”