Politicians put politics on hold after king’s death, and let fuel prices rise

**Norway’s Political Debate Paused as Fuel Prices Rise Following King Harald V’s Death**

*Oslo, 2 September 2026* – The death of King Harald V last week has ushered Norway into a period of national mourning, during which political leaders have postponed most parliamentary debate. The pause coincides with the expiration of a temporary fuel‑tax relief scheme, resulting in an immediate increase in gasoline and diesel prices across the country.

The fuel‑tax reduction, which had been in effect for several months, was scheduled to end on 1 September. Although some politicians sought to prolong the relief, the proposal did not pass before the deadline. Consequently, the removal of the tax exemption has caused fuel prices to rise again, adding to public concern over the cost of living.

Norway, a major oil‑producing nation, has historically used temporary tax cuts to moderate fuel costs for consumers. The recent cessation of the relief comes at a time when the nation’s political agenda is largely on hold out of respect for the late monarch. Government officials have indicated that substantive policy discussions, including those related to energy and taxation, will resume after the official mourning period concludes.

No further legislative action on fuel taxation has been announced at this stage. The government has not provided a timeline for when the next review of fuel‑price measures will occur.

Article source: newsinenglish.no | Image credit: Newsinenglish.no