Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether he has made an assessment of the potential merits of including representatives of the police on the Illicit Tobacco Taskforce.

Although HMRC works with the police where appropriate, it is the lead law enforcement agency on tobacco fraud. HMRC has its own powers to conduct criminal investigations, make arrests and seek prosecution (via the Crown Prosecution Service).

The initial members of the taskforce will play a lead role in tackling tobacco fraud, but will also work with all law enforcement and intelligence agencies where appropriate. As the taskforce develops, the Government will regularly review the need to bring in other partners.