Written question asked by Phyllis Starkey (Labour) on Wednesday, 16 December 2009, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 5 January 2010. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Monday, 11 January 2010 on behalf of the Treasury.

Imports: Israel

Question: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer pursuant to the answer of 10 December 2009, Official Report, column 579W, on agricultural products: Israel, who (a) the importer, (b) the stated place of origin, (c) the actual place of origin and (d) the person or organisation responsible for mislabelling was in relation to the two labelling irregularities for herbs; what sanctions were imposed by HM Revenue and Customs in each case; and against whom.

Answer: For reasons of commercial confidentiality HM Revenue and Customs cannot release the names of specific importers and exporters.The accompanying proofs of preferential origin showed that the produce had been produced in one case in 19 different locations including Avital, Nir Moshe, Rewaya and Yavne-EI, which had not been included in the lists of settlements and accompanying zip codes circulated by the European Commission.The place of production shown on outer packaging/cartons was the Jordan Valley.The goods were released from customs control upon provision of financial security for the full rate of customs duty payable. Inquiries are under way with the Israeli authorities to establish the true place of origin.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 503 c767W; 309040
Session: 2009-10
Related items: Agricultural Products: Israel
Thursday, 10 December 2009
Written questions
House of Commons
Subjects: Imports Israel
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk