Few people are not affected by the fuel crisis which suddenly sprang up in Sussex and other parts of the country this week.

Even those who do not drive could be affected by cuts in public transport or rationing in some shops of essential food such as bread.

So far, attention has focused on the Government because of the high duty on petrol but the latest rise has been caused by conditions in the world market, not taxation.

The spotlight should instead be shifted on to the small number of unelected protesters who are blocking fuel supplies all over the country.

They claim to have public support on their side and to some extent that may be true as no one likes price rises. But unlike unions when they strike, these objectors have not got any legal backing for their action.

Police have a right and a duty to ensure that essential fuel supplies are maintained during this dispute.

Most private motorists, however much they may complain, can do without their cars for a short while.

But if medicine and food cannot get through because fuel is lacking, this could cause a real crisis for many old, sick and disabled people.

Mr Blair must not cave in to this unofficial but highly effective blockade. But he does have to ensure it does not cause real pain.

Once it has ended he should call for a review of fuel policy to ensure it is not placing an unfair burden on some operators.

Give them a hand Many dustmen are working like stink in Brighton and Hove as reporter Rowan Dore found out when he joined a crew for a day.

But it is taking time for them to adjust to the new and tough rounds introduced last month by contractors Sita.

The rubbish company must shoulder most of the blame for the problems encountered by many householders during the switch.

But it's clear that many people could do more to help by not leaving dangerous or smelly rubbish around.

That would enable Sita and its workforce to make Brighton and Hove look clean and sparkling once again.

Foxing clever That rascally fox Basil Brush is making a comeback thanks to Brighton writers Brian Mitchell and Joseph Nixon.

He is about to be relaunched in a sitcom called Foxed in which he will live with a family of humans.

Basil told the Argus he is confident of making a second success as a star of the small screen. If so, it will be a Boom! Boom!