To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many and what percentage of travellers using Heathrow airport were stopped and searched by HM Revenue and Customs in 2008; how many of those were found to be smuggling; and if she will make a statement. (276927)

During 2008, responsibility for searching passengers moved to the UK Border Agency. Location specific statistics are not published as this would provide information of value to those seeking to circumvent controls, thereby prejudicing the prevention and detection of crime.

National Statistics regarding Search of Person are outlined on page 47 of the HMRC autumn report which can be found at:

www.hmrc.gov.uk/about/autumn-report-2008