§ Mr. Martyn JonesTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what is the estimated loss in tax due to illegal imports of(a) beer and (b) wine for (i) 1980, (ii) 1985, (iii) 1990, (iv) 1994 and (v) 1995. [23260]
(2) what is the estimated amount of illegal imports of (a) beer and (b) wine for (i) 1980, (ii) 1985, (iii) 1990, (iv) 1994 and (v) 1995.[23259]
§ Mr. Heathcoat-AmoryBefore the completion of the single market on 1 January 1993 only seizures of spirits were separately recorded as seizures of other alcoholic drinks were insignificant. It is by definition impossible to calculate the true extent of smuggling and there is no current estimate. The actual amount of goods seized and the corresponding revenue evaded during the last two financial years are shown in the table.
Beer Wine Financial year ending Revenue (£000s) Quantity (hlitres) Revenue (£000s) Quantity (hlitres) 31 March 1994 500 7,000 155 840 31 March 1995 1,000 11,000 330 1,900