DEFRA shadow secretary raises concerns over tractor ban on Budget day

The Conservative MP for Louth and Horncastle wrote to the Metropolitan Police Commissioner expressing her disappointment over the decision to ban tractors from entering Central London on 26th November.

The letter reads: ‘From my understanding, since 22 October, the organisers of the protest had been cooperating constructively with the Metropolitan Police on arranging a demonstration including tractors and other agricultural vehicles and equipment to coincide with Budget Day on 26 November. 

‘[…] Yet less than 24 hours before the protest was due to take place, a decision was taken to place conditions on the protest to prevent protesters from bringing vehicles to the protest. Many attending were already travelling from across the country to London.  

‘[…] This sudden and late change in approval resulted in shock and speculation about why approval was suddenly withdrawn from peaceful demonstrators. As a result, many arrived, unaware of the new conditions, and we have seen arrests for the first time during farming protests in the capital.’ 

Atkins MP said that this unexpected U-turn has shaken the confidence of many in the motives of the Metropolitan Police.  

‘Questions have been raised which must be addressed to ensure confidence in the Metropolitan Police’s independent decision making,” she added. 

READ MORE: Autumn Budget 2025: London farmers’ rally in photos

Questions raised

The MP Atkins raised doubts about whether the sudden change was influenced by political pressure. 

She also highlighted inconsistencies with how other protests, including Brexit demonstrations and more disruptive protests, have been handled.  

She asked seven specific questions about why permission was changed, whether political influence was involved, the number of officers deployed, and details about arrests. 

‘Transparency and fairness are vital for trust, and I would be grateful if you could investigate these questions urgently,” the MP concluded her letter. 

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