Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what steps his Department is taking to ensure the maintenance of the UK’s position as an international leader in illicit tobacco control after the UK leaves the EU; and what plans he has to implement the provisions of the WHO FCTC Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products.

The government recognises that the trade in illicit tobacco is a global problem that requires a global solution. On 27 June 2018, the UK ratified the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control Protocol, an important international agreement that promotes a framework of regulation and cooperation to tackle the illicit trade.

The government remains fully committed to the Protocol and to working with other Parties, including the EU Commission, to ensure its global implementation. HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) will continue to take an active role supporting the FCTC Secretariat’s work programme, sharing expertise and supporting other Parties work towards implementation.

Parliament passed legislation to implement all compulsory elements of the Protocol prior to the UK’s ratification. A track and trace system, as required by Article 8 of the Protocol, is being introduced under requirements of the Tobacco Products Directive 2014/40.

In addition, HMRC continues to maintain its worldwide network of Fiscal Crime Liaison Officers (FCLOs), who work with overseas authorities to tackle tobacco smuggling. They particularly focus on facilitating upstream seizures of illicit tobacco destined for the UK and remain an integral part of HMRC’s anti-illicit strategy.