The government will not reverse the most recent rise in fuel taxes because it is impossible to prove what impact they have had, the Volkskrant reports on Wednesday.

The tax office has been unable to determine if the increases have led to a decline in petrol and diesel sales in the border areas, which in turn would have an impact on tax income. Petrol producers were also involved in the research, the Volkskrant says.

Sources in The Hague told the paper that junior finance minister Eric Wiebes will outline the situation to the cabinet at today’s meeting. However, his conclusions are at odds with those of opposition parties who say fuel sales have plunged in border areas as drivers cross the border to buy cheaper petrol in Germany.

Earlier this year, motoring organisation Bovag suggested the treasury was missing out on €1bn in fuel taxes because of the high prices in the Netherlands.