"Actually, panic buying now will spread demand over a longer period and possibly reduce the risk of major shortages. "
Ok so panic buying is good, right oh so all the fuel in the country is bought and in the tanks of cars! are you with me?
"Those who have full tanks now can go longer without having to buy again. "
Yes they can, however when they want to buy there will be no more because everyone will now be panic buying so the fuel will run out quickly
So lets recap shall we, there is not enough fuel to go around but we will sell as much as possible as quickliy as possible, all gone, solves the issue or rationing I grant you.
Good job they didn't try that with food in the 2nd world war. I know, stuff rationing, let's all pig out for 6 months and then we'll be full up for longer.
Oh dear Oh dear Oh dear!
Own up Panic, I won't gloat!