Written question asked by Julian Lewis (Conservative) on Monday, 23 October 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 2 November 2000. It was answered by Barbara Roche (Labour) on Thursday, 2 November 2000 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if he will make a statement about the fine imposed on a haulier at Dover who voluntarily reported his discovery of illegal immigrants in his lorry.

Answer: Dr. Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement about the fine imposed on a haulier at Dover who voluntarily reported his discovery of illegal immigrants in his lorry. [135022] Mrs. Roche: Without more detail I am not sure to which haulier the hon. Member is referring any haulier who suspects that persons are concealed in their vehicle should report the matter immediately to the authorities, whether in the United Kingdom or abroad. To do otherwise may give rise to suspicion that they are deliberately involved in facilitating the illegal entry of such persons. If a haulier has taken proper measures to secure his vehicle in accordance with the Code of Practice for Vehicles, he will have grounds for establishing a defence against the Civil Penalty that may be imposed. Where a penalty is imposed there are thirty days in which to lodge a notice objecting to liability.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 355 c610W; 135022
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Immigration controls Liability Undocumented migrants Fines Large goods vehicles Large goods vehicle drivers
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk