§ 49. Mr. Patrick Thompsonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on the operation of the export licences system.
§ Mr. BrookeThe Export of Goods (Control) Order 1985, S.I. 1985 No. 849 lists goods whose exportation is prohibited without a licence. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry is responsible for the legislation and his Department issues the licences. Her Majesty's Customs and Excise are responsible for enforcing the controls at exportation. During the year ended 31 March 1985 goods to the value of nearly £18 million were seized, offences involved 191 persons of whom three received prison sentences and compounded settlements under section 152 of the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 totalled over £78,000.