The Metropolitan Police have imposed restrictions on a planned farmers’ protest set to take place in central London on Tuesday, prohibiting protesters from bringing tractors and other large farming vehicles unless specifically authorised.
Protest Details & Route
Date: Tuesday, March 4, 2025
Location: Protesters to gather in Whitehall from 11:00 AM
Procession Route:
- Starting at Whitehall around midday
- Heading to Trafalgar Square
- Turning into Northumberland Avenue
- Moving along the Embankment
- Returning via Westminster Bridge Road and Parliament Street
- Rally: A protest rally will be held in Whitehall from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM
Police Restrictions on Tractors & Large Vehicles
The Public Order Act conditions prevent demonstrators from using tractors or other large farming vehicles, except for a limited number pre-approved by the police.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ben Russell, leading the policing operation, 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, blocking Whitehall for much of the day and causing significant delays on surrounding roads.”
“It is our responsibility to ensure that protests don’t cause serious disruption to the life of the community, and we’ve used our powers under the Public Order Act to ensure that does not happen on Tuesday.”
Legal Conditions & Penalties
Section 14(3) Public Order Act: Protesters must not drive or use mechanically propelled vehicles without prior approval from the Metropolitan Police.
Section 12(3) Public Order Act: The same condition applies to the protest procession, requiring Met Police authorisation for any vehicles involved.
Breaching these conditions or inciting others to do so is a criminal offence and may result in arrest.
Police & Organisers’ Cooperation
The Met confirmed they have been in regular contact with the organisers and expressed appreciation for their cooperation.
More updates will follow as the protest unfolds on Tuesday.
