Red diesel cleared to fight cold spell

A change in rules to allow farmers to use red diesel in their tractors to help grit and clear snow from public roads makes complete sense the NFU said today.

HMRC has recognised the vital role that farmers are playing across the country during the current bout of extreme winter weather. They have confirmed that red diesel can be used in tractors on public roads to help provide access to schools, hospitals, remote dwellings or communities cut off by ice and snow

NFU transport adviser Peter Garbutt said: “This is a sensible step to deal with the exceptionally difficult conditions we’re experiencing. There are hundreds of farmers up and down the country who will now be able to clear their roads more effectively without risk of falling foul of the law.

“I would now like to see local councils providing farmers with grit and other equipment needed so they can make a difference.”

Notes to editors:
More details can be obtained by calling the Excise and Customs Helpline on 0845 010 9000. NFU members can find out more on other operations red diesel can be used for by phoning NFU CallFirst on 0870 845 8458