New guidance has been issued for farmers and
agricultural contractors on the use of red diesel in vehicles on the road,
The aim is to clarify how rebated fuel can be used by farmers and
agricultural contractors and ensure both the industry and enforcement officers
have a clear and common understanding of how the law will be interpreted and
applied.
Under current legislation, the exemption defines a tractor as a
vehicle used on public roads ‘solely’ for purposes relating to agriculture,
horticulture, forestry or cutting verges bordering public roads; or cutting
hedges or trees bordering public roads or bordering verges which border public
roads.
DEFINITION
The new Memorandum more clearly defines the meaning of ‘solely’ as well as
clarifying those activities where the use of red diesel is acceptable. Jill
Hewitt, chief executive of the NAAC, said the message was clear that red diesel
is intended for off road use and the agricultural sector is allowed the
exemption for road use when this is incidental to the agricultural operation
being carried out on the land.
“We are delighted it has been made clear that contractors are allowed
to use red diesel to move between agricultural operations but we must not abuse
our privilege”, she added. “I would urge all operators to take note of the
Memorandum. It can only be a positive step to have clear guidance so that if
you are stopped you can actually feel confident that you are OK.”