UK ruling increases cross-Channel tobacco allowances

Print Article E-Mail Article

Returning UK cross-Channel shoppers will be allowed to take 3,200 cigarettes back into the country from France, under new rules outlined by the Treasury today

This raises the limit from the previous 800 sticks. The hand-rolled tobacco allowance also rises, from 1kg to 3kg. The new limits take effect immediately.

The government said the new levels were "indicative" of how much shoppers could take into the country, but said it would make it easier for customs to identify smugglers, who often take in far more than these amounts.

The move follows recent criticism of customs' tactics in clamping down on travellers who were buying tobacco for their own use, but were often accused of smuggling and had their purchases confiscated.

UK economic secretary John Healey said: "The measures I am announcing today will help make the distinction between smugglers and honest shoppers even clearer.
"The measures make clear that Customs activity is legal and fair but tough on those who attempt to smuggle."

Tobacco smuggling into the high-tax UK from the EU is estimated to have cost the government £3.5bn ($5.3bn) in lost duties the ten years to 2001.