A cross-party campaign headed by the SNP is to press the Westminster government to scrap an imminent 3p rise in fuel duty.
The Scottish Chambers of Commerce has backed the action, which it says would be a "welcome boost for businesses" facing economic hardship.
Chief Executive Liz Cameron said it would be "a welcome boost for businesses which are having to contend with high transportation and utility costs at a time when domestic demand remains subdued".
More than 50 MPs from nine parties have pledged to support a Budget clause drafted by the SNP to scrap the increase, which is due to take effect in August.
The campaign has been backed by Fairfuel UK, which claims more than 300,000 supporters across Britain.
SNP Treasury spokesman Stewart Hosie said he hoped to force a vote on the issue as the Budget bill completes its passage through Westminster.
He said: "This is welcome support from the Scottish Chambers of Commerce for the cross-party action to halt the fuel hike.
"It highlights the clear business case for the 3p rise to be scrapped.
"At a time when the economy is stalling, and we already have the highest fuel tax rates in Europe, it would be economic madness for the Treasury to press ahead with this further rise.
"Scrapping the rise will ease the burden on households and businesses across the country and, crucially, it will help get the economy moving again.
"The SNP-drafted clause to scrap the 3p fuel hike is a clear and effective way for the Treasury to take action now."
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