HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has today announced a relaxation of the rules on the use of red diesel to allow farmers to help grit and clear snow from public roads.image expired

HMRC said it recognised the vital role that farmers play across the country during the winter weather and confirmed that red diesel can be used temporarily in tractors on public roads to help provide access to schools, hospitals, remote dwellings or local communities cut off by ice and snow

However, the measure is only temporary at present. Farming unions, including the NFU, have called for it to be made permanent to expedite gritting operations and recognise the service farmers provide to their communities. Further consultation will be held over the coming weeks to determine whether measures will remain in place.

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