Earlier this week, the government urged motorists to have their own “contingency plans” for the upcoming strike, such as making sure that their vehicles are filled up. Labour described these comments as “the height of irresponsibility”.

The government have responded by saying that they are calling on the public to be prepared “in a calm-headed and sensible way".

Cobra, the civil contingencies committee, will be meeting later today to brief David Cameron on possible ways to minimise public disruption in the event of a strike. Drivers are unhappy with the health and safety standards of their work, and union Unison are threatening to strike over the Easter weekend.

Five out of seven companies involved in the dispute have voted for a walkout, meaning 90% of forecourts are set to be affected if strike plans go ahead.

Data has revealed that forecourts have seen an increased footfall in the last few days, but there have been no reports of extensive panic buying yet.

Trade unions and oil firms are being invited to talks with conciliation service Acas, in a bid to prevent the strikes.