| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 01/05/00 |
| Author: | Page Number: 27 |
| Copyright: Other |
Hoverspeed battles Customs
HOVERSPEED has vowed to fight a Customs and Excise challenge to the legality of its new wine home delivery service.The service, launched last February, is available to customers who buy four cases of wine or more from a Hoverspeed wine shop on the continent. Delivery within 72 hours of purchase to addresses in England and Wales costs from £20.
A Customs spokeswoman said customers using the service may be liable for higher UK duty rates on the wine because they are not personally travelling with the goods they buy. This would mean customers would have to pay the £1.05 UK duty rate rather than the 2p French rate on their wine.
Customs is currently consulting with its lawyers on the legal issues and is in negotiations with the ferry operator.
However, a Hoverspeed spokesman claimed Customs’ arguments were weak. He said the company was highly likely to pursue legal action to defend its home delivery service if it became necessary. “Not only do those of us living in the UK have to pay some of the highest duty rates in the European Union, but Customs appears determined to ensure that cross-Channel travellers cannot enjoy the benefits of lower prices on the Continent,” he said.