Illegal tobacco trade busted

An investigation is under way after test shoppers found tobacco was being illegally sold in Morecambe. A global cigarette firm bought non-duty paid tobacco at locations across Morecambe and will hand the evidence to Trading Standards. The tobacco and cigarettes haul is thought to include counterfeit versions of genuine tobacco brands and products made specially to be smuggled into the UK to avoid paying tax and sold on illegally, also known as illicit whites. David Morris, MP for Morecambe and Lunesdale, also saw the evidence for himself and said he was “extremely shocked” at the extent of the illegal tobacco trade The test purchases were carried out by Japan Tobacco International (JTI) whose brands include Benson & Hedges and Silk Cut. A JTI spokesman said: “The impact of the illicit trade in tobacco on society is far reaching and members of the public, retailers, suppliers and the Government all have a role to play to combat the issue. Criminals who deal in illegal tobacco will sell to all-comers, including children. JTI fully supports any efforts to rid our streets of illegal tobacco and stop criminals infiltrating our communities.

 

http://www.thevisitor.co.uk/news/local/morecambe-s-illegal-tobacco-trade-busted-by-test-shoppers-1-7368324