Written question asked by Eric Illsley (Labour) on Thursday, 10 January 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 24 January 2002. It was answered by Lord Boateng (Labour) on Thursday, 24 January 2002 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, What representations he has received regarding the seizure of motor vehicles by Customs and Excise in the last three years. (Failed OPQ)

Answer: Mr. Illsley: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations he has received regarding the seizure of motor vehicles by Customs and Excise in the last three years. [27567] Mr. Boateng: Vehicle seizure is proving an effective weapon in tackling smuggling as evidenced by real reductions in levels of cross-channel passenger smuggling and its use has been recommended by two major, independent evaluations in the last three years. Customs have, in response to these recommendations, put in place a robust vehicle seizure policy which hits the smugglers hard. They have gone to great lengths to publicise their policy and ensure that people are aware of the penalties smugglers face.

Secondary information