MP welcomes red diesel concession from HMRC

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has welcomed the news that farmers can now use red diesel in certain vehicles if they are gritting roads this winter.

From November 1st, the rules on the use of red diesel have changed, allowing users of agricultural tractors, light agricultural vehicles and agricultural material handlers in the SouthLakes to use red diesel in their vehicles when gritting public roads.

These changes follow an overwhelmingly positive response to a public consultation by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC): http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/news/changes-red-diesel.htm

Previously, only vehicles constructed or adapted solely for gritting roads were allowed to use red diesel for gritting purposes. This restriction prevented farmers from using their tractors and other agricultural vehicles that are ordinarily fuelled with red diesel to respond quickly to adverse weather conditions.

HMRC accepts that due to their design and off-road capability, these can often be the most suitable vehicles for snow clearance and gritting, whether this is through the attachment or trailing of equipment or the simple transportation of material to be spread manually.

Tim said: "In rural areas like ours farmers take action to keep our roads open and ensure safety. I'm pleased that the government has listened to our calls for them to make this change."