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The Gas Tax Holiday Ends in 24 Days — Here's the Real Math on What You'll Save

  Published August 14, 2026 Ottawa's fuel excise tax suspension shuts off September 7. Here's what it's actually been worth at the pump, what changes the next morning, and who should plan a fill-up before Labour Day. The Countdown The federal fuel excise tax returns to full rate on September 8, 2026 — that's 24 days from today. Prices reset to their pre-April 20 rate the moment the clock hits midnight. If you've noticed gas feeling a little less painful since spring, that wasn't your imagination. On April 20, 2026, Ottawa suspended the federal fuel excise tax — 10 cents a litre off gasoline, 4 cents off diesel — as Middle East oil-supply disruptions pushed pump prices toward $2 a litre in some cities. The suspension, passed as part of Bill C-30, has been running for nearly four months. It ends September 7, inclusive. On September 8, the tax comes right back. What the holiday actually saved you The headline number — 10 cents a litre on gas — undersells it sligh...
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England’s Doctors Strike Amid Winter Flu Crisis

 

           Resident doctors from the British Medical Association picket outside St Thomas’ Hospital in London


Doctors across England have launched a five-day strike in the midst of a severe flu surge, intensifying pressure on the already strained National Health Service (NHS). The industrial action, led by resident or junior doctors, began on December 17, 2025, and is set to run until December 22.

Background of the Dispute

  • The strike is part of a long-running pay and working conditions dispute between doctors and the UK government.
  • Junior doctors argue that their pay has been eroded over more than a decade, leaving them struggling amid rising living costs.
  • The British Medical Association (BMA) reported that 83% of its members rejected the government’s latest pay offer, which included expanded training posts but fell short of the union’s demands.

Government Response

  • Health Secretary Wes Streeting has condemned the strikes as “self-indulgent, irresponsible and dangerous”, insisting that the government cannot afford the 26% pay rise demanded.
  • Officials warn the walkout could cost the NHS hundreds of millions of pounds and further disrupt patient care.

Impact on Healthcare

  • NHS England has already warned of a “worst-case scenario” as hospitals face record flu admissions, with some describing the outbreak as a “super flu”.
  • Hospitals have been instructed to maintain 95% of usual activity, though leaders admit this will be difficult given winter pressures and rising patient numbers.
  • Patients are expected to experience delays and cancellations, particularly in non-urgent care.

Outlook

This strike marks the 14th walkout since March 2023, underscoring the deepening rift between doctors and the government. With flu cases climbing and no resolution in sight, the dispute highlights the fragile state of England’s healthcare system during one of its toughest winters in recent memory.


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