MOTORISTS ARE URGED TO CUT DOWN ON NON-ESSENTIALS AFTER PETROL PRICE HIKE

Sharp movements in international petroleum prices have combined with a weakening SA rand to push fuel prices higher for December. 

Petrol will go up by 71 cents per litre at midnight and diesel by between 57 and 60 cents. 

Motorists have been advised to cut down on the non-essential action of spending funds following the recent petrol hike announcement. 

Illuminating paraffin will cost between 70 and 98 cents per litre more. 

The Automobile Association's Layton Beard says: “Our advice to motorists is that there’s always that temptation to spend more on non-essential items during the holiday period.

“But we’ll advise all of them to be cautious and be alert against these high motoring costs in the new year.”

The new prices are expected to take effect on Wednesday.