HL Deb 14 January 1986 vol 469 cc1062-3WA
Lord Jenkins of Putney

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are aware of reports that Sotheby's are planning to auction on 9th December property alleged to have been illegally smuggled from Italy; and if so whether they will invite the Attorney General to refer the matter to the Director of Pubic Prosecutions.

Lord Young of Graffham

Primary responsibility for the enforcement of import restrictions and prosecutions for their contravention rests with the Commissioners of HM Customs and Excise, who are aware of the circumstances referred to by the noble Lord. The property in question is not subject to any restriction on importation and accordingly its importation does not constitute an offence.