The jump in retail gas prices is partly due to the seasonal production switch from winter- to summer-grade gasoline, which usually brings higher prices as output is temporarily reduced.

The jump in retail gas prices is partly due to the seasonal production switch from winter to summer grade gasoline, which usually brings higher prices as output is temporarily reduced. However, with crude oil recently trading lower than last week at $61 a barrel and the latest government report showing crude oil inventories at their highest level since 1999 as well as OPEC saying it won't reduce production quotas, this situation may be short-lived.

We're advising motorists not to top-off their tanks. With the price of gasoline escalating, motorists can conserve gas by making sure their vehicle is routinely maintained, consolidating trips, car pooling, using mass transit and for short trips try bicycling or walking.

But the retail prices are following the prices the stations pay for gas right up, ... Gas stations and gas station owners have not made money from gas sales alone all summer.

We're on track to record high gas prices this winter,

Mr. Speaker, high natural gas prices and the summer spike in gasoline prices serve as a stark reminder that the path to energy independence is a long and arduous one.