Dadds LLP advises MPs at Beer Tax Fraud Inquiry

With the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group taking evidence from senior figures in the drinks industry, David Dadds, Partner and Head of Licensing and Regulatory Crime at Dadds LLP Licensing Solicitors, has offered expert advice and proposals to MPs.

Counterfeit stamps

On the subject of counterfeiting, Mr Dadds said: “Some stamps are so good that it is difficult to tell if they are counterfeit.  How is the Government expecting people to identify the difference in the stamps?”

He also made the point that introducing fiscal marks on some bottles and cans but not all had the potential to be very confusing for small retailers.

Registration of wholesalers

The Government has proposed, as part of its consultation, that wholesalers be registered.  Wholesalers are currently the only element throughout the supply chain for alcohol that does not require a licence to sell such goods.

Mr Dadds suggested introducing wholesaler licences under the Licensing Act 2003, the legislation currently used to regulate retailers.  He said: “I don’t understand why you would go through a registration scheme through customs and excise, when you have a licence regime structure already."

In a proposal which was particularly well received by MPs, he added that using the regime under the Licensing Act would be far simpler and easier and could be set up within a matter of weeks.

The measures to register wholesalers are aimed at limiting opportunities for fraudsters to sell wholesale quantities into the off-trade supply chain.

How we can help

Our expert licensing solicitors at Dadds LLP Licensing Solicitors are able to offer advice and assistance on all aspects of licensing law and practice.  If you have any concerns about how the possible introduction of duty stamps on beer bottles, cans and containers will affect your business, please contact us on 01277 631 811 or complete the free enquiry form below.

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