Farmers can use red diesel to help out during extreme weather snap

Rochdale Borough Council Snow Plough/Gritter at work on the Borough's roads

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) confirmed today that during extreme weather farmers can use red diesel in their tractors to help grit and clear snow from public roads.

Under normal rules any vehicle that is being used to clear snow from public roads using a snow plough or similar device is entitled to use red diesel. However, only vehicles that are constructed or adapted and used solely for spreading material on roads to deal with frost, ice and snow can undertake gritting work while using red diesel.

HMRC recognises the vital role played by farmers in helping to keep rural roads clear and has recently consulted on a proposed change to the legislation to allow red diesel to be used in tractors while gritting. A summary of consultation responses will be published shortly. During periods of extreme weather, HMRC will adopt a pragmatic approach to the rules. This means that agricultural tractors on public roads clearing snow or gritting to provide access to schools, hospitals, a remote dwelling, or communities cut off by ice and snow can continue to use red diesel.

More details can be obtained by calling the Excise and Customs Helpline on 0845 010 9000.