Anti-fraud link plan
13th April 1995, Page 14
13th April 1995
Page 14
Page 14, 13th April 1995
— Anti-fraud link plan
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9 The European Commission wants to set up a multimillion pound computer link-up between customs authorities to beat fraud.
Tax on goods in transit within the European Union is supposed to be paid when they reach their destination, but fraudsters aim to make shipments "disappear" en route. The EC estimates that the scam, mainly affecting alcohol and cigarettes, has cost taxpayers £650 million in lost revenue since 1990.
Currently communications between different national customs authorities rely largely on paperwork. Computer links would be quicker and more efficient, says the Commission, although any system would not be ready until 1998.