diff --git a/cylc/flow/scheduler.py b/cylc/flow/scheduler.py
index 566c4d977c1..1fc835e7379 100644
--- a/cylc/flow/scheduler.py
+++ b/cylc/flow/scheduler.py
@@ -1274,11 +1274,6 @@ def _configure_contact(self) -> None:
 
     def load_flow_file(self, is_reload=False):
         """Load, and log the workflow definition."""
-        # Local workflow environment set therein.
-        # Allow -S and -D to take effect in Cylc VR.
-        # https://github.com/cylc/cylc-flow/issues/5968
-        self.options.rose_template_vars = []
-        self.options.defines = []
         return WorkflowConfig(
             self.workflow,
             self.flow_file,