Photo: Jon Manchester

BC Liberal Leader Andrew Wilkinson wants to give B.C. drivers a long-weekend gift.

Wilkinson called Wednesday for the governing NDP to provide temporary provincial fuel tax relief from soaring gas prices in B.C., which have been the highest in North America.

“It’s very clear British Columbians are the ones paying for Premier John Horgan’s political games and his government’s hefty tax grabs,” Wilkinson said in a press release. “The least he could do for families is give them a break at the gas pumps so they can enjoy their well-deserved holidays this year.”

Gas prices have climbed more than 32 cents per litre since last May long weekend, he noted.

Wilkinson said the NDP’s non-revenue neutral carbon tax increase earlier this spring makes up a good portion of the extra dollars British Columbians are paying in fuel charges.

“By temporarily reducing the provincial motor fuel tax and the carbon tax on gas and diesel, people who are heading off on the traditional B.C. summer road trip with their families can save some money,” he said. "Hard-working people in this province pay enough as it is, it’s time for the premier to show some leadership and provide a little help.”

There's no word on whether the government will take the Liberals' advice.