Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, with reference to bullet four of Aim 1A in the policy paper entitled Stubbing out the problem: A new strategy to tackle illicit tobacco, published in January 2024, whether the review of sanctions will include a re-examination of the ability for Trading Standards to apply on-the-spot fines rather than referring to HMRC.

There are no immediate plans to re-examine the ability for Trading Standards to apply ‘on the spot fines’ rather than referring to HMRC. However, the Government keeps all options under review and welcomes representations to inform future decisions.

HMRC and Trading Standards worked closely together to design the current referral process. Making best use of their respective resources and expertise in the most effective and efficient way was a major driver for the current design.

The referral model leverages the strengths of both organisations: Trading Standards’ ability to provide street level enforcement activity and visibility, alongside HMRC's capabilities in the effective administration of penalties.