To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what guidance is given to HM Revenue and Customs customs officers on the exercise of powers of arrest in relation to individuals from whom seizures of goods are made; and if he will make a statement. (175819)

HMRC is not able to seize goods illegally.

HM Revenue and Customs officers engaged in operational customs work have powers of arrest under s.138 of the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 and s.24(2) of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.

All officers involved in work areas that require them to exercise the power of arrest, including those involved in making arrests of individuals from whom seizures of illegal goods are made, receive training in arrest procedures, policy and relevant law as part of their core training for the role. In addition, standing instructions on arrest law and procedure are maintained as a source of reference for all officers involved in works areas that require them to exercise the power of arrest.

Only staff who have received full training in relevant law and procedure are authorised to effect an arrest.

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many seizures of illegal goods HM Revenue and Customs customs officers made in (a) ports, (b) airports, (c) rail terminals and (d) other locations in each year since 2004. (175820)

The number of seizures of illegal goods is published in the HMRC and previously HM Customs and Excise Annual report.

The requested breakdown could be provided only at disproportionate cost.