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HomeFarming NewsChange to red diesel use rule for tractor runs
Catherina Cunnane
Catherina Cunnanehttps://www.thatsfarming.com/
Catherina Cunnane hails from a sixth-generation drystock and specialised pedigree suckler enterprise in Co. Mayo. She currently holds the positions of editor and general manager at That's Farming, having joined the firm during its start-up phase in 2015.
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Change to red diesel use rule for tractor runs

Tractor run participants can use red diesel from April 1st, 2022, it has been confirmed.

The news comes following the HMRC’s decision to amend its rebated fuels guidance.

This will allow tractor runs, ploughing matches and agricultural shows to continue as activities accepted as ‘purposes relating to agriculture, horticulture and forestry’.

Red diesel 

The updated guidance states that activities falling within the definition of agriculture will include ‘running or participating in events which provide information and education that benefit agriculture, horticulture or forestry, including taking part in charitable activities that promote these industries’.

According to a statement from the UK government, these events “demonstrate the skills and exhibit the equipment and animals associated with agriculture and animal husbandry”.

Within these sectors, it added, it is allowed rebated fuel for accepted uses only in:

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  • Agricultural vehicles;
  • Unlicenced vehicles;
  • Special vehicles;
  • Moving machines;
  • Certain other machines and appliances.

UFU deputy president, David Brown, has welcomed the HMRC’s decision to add tractor tuns to its red diesel usage rules.

He said:

“HMRC has made the right decision by including tractor runs, in addition to shows and ploughing matches as activities that provide information, education and raise money for charity.”

“Earlier in the month, HMRC backtracked on changes to red diesel usage rules. It included ploughing matches and agricultural shows but left out tractor runs.”

“We outlined our disappointment to HMRC that tractor runs organised as charity events or for educational purposes were not included in this amendment.”

“It is encouraging that they reviewed this position following pressures from the industry and politicians.”

“It is good that common sense has prevailed. Our rural communities can continue to raise essential funds through tractor runs and other agricultural events,” Brown concluded.

Further reading on That’s Farming:

Last December, we featured an article to inform readers about red diesel rule changes.

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