Duty stamps launched

Published: 23 July, 2008

After several years of wrangling, arguments and counter-arguments, the Government finally unveiled its anti-fraud weapon, the Duty Stamp, this week.
The duty stamps (pictured) will be required to appear on all bottles of 35cl or above containing spirits of 30% abv or more from 1 October. The Government is asking for all producers, stores or suppliers of spirits to be fully prepared' for the 1 October deadline and to apply to the UK Duty Stamps Scheme immediately in order to give themselves a chance of being ready on time'.

Alcohol fraud is at an unacceptable level in the UK, and that is why the Government has taken steps to tackle the problem,' says John Healey, HM Treasury secretary. The UK Duty Stamps Scheme is central to the Government's strategy to tackle alcohol fraud, and I believe its introduction is a positive and significant move to combat those criminal organisations that undermine legitimate business.'

A microsite (www.ukdutystamps.info) has been set up for guidance, and it includes a downloadable registration form. Forms are also available from the helpline: 0845 010 9000.

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