Met Police impose restrictions to limit tractors at farming Pancake Day protest

Farmers could be breaking the law if they take tractors to the Pancake Day rally this week.

Officers from the Met Police issued a statement on Saturday (March 1) urging farmers not to bring tractors to the Shrove Tuesday protest (March 4) in London.

Police have issued restrictions under the Public Order Act which will prevent farmers from bringing tractors to the rally due to 'significant delays' caused by previous demonstrations held in the capital over recent months.

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Olly Harrison, Andrew Ward, Martin Williams and Clive Bailye have organised the rally in the hope of persuading Chancellor Rachel Reeves to consider granting a reprieve for the ‘oldest farmers' who could face a 'devastating' Inheritance Tax bill.

Those attending the event will form up in Whitehall from 11am, with a procession taking place from around midday heading towards Trafalgar Square.

The protest will then head to Northumberland Avenue along the Embankment and back into Whitehall via Westminster Bridge Road and Parliament Street.

Officers said it is a criminal offence to breach the conditions or to incite others to do so.

Those in breach could face arrest.

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However, only a 'limited number' of tractors have been granted prior permission to take their tractors to London.

Ben Russell, Met Police deputy assistant commissioner, said: "Two previous protests have taken place in the same area, with the same organisers, in recent months.

"The second protest saw a significant number of people attend with tractors and other large farming vehicles.

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"Whitehall was blocked for much of the day and there were lengthy significant delays on surrounding roads.

"It is our responsibility to ensure that protests do not cause serious disruption to the life of the community and we have used our powers under the Public Order Act to ensure that does not happen on Tuesday.

"We have been in regular contact with the organisers to explain our decision making and I am grateful for the positive and collaborative approach they have taken."