Tax defaulter loses case after making protest vote
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alA Cleveland haulier lost its licence after operating untaxed international trucks as a "protest vote", and storming out of a public inquiry declaring that Traffic Commissioner Beverley Bell did not understand the industry.
David Eccles and John Heads, trading as Euro Haul, of Middlesbrough, had a licence for 67 trucks and 20 trailers. They were called before Bell. sitting as North Eastern Deputy Traffic Commissioner.
For the firm, Gary Hodgson said that all their vehicles were currently taxed. The failure to pay vehicle excise duty, which had resulted in two convictions and a report from Kent Police, related to international vehicles.
"Vehicles had not been taxed by way of a protest vote as when they are on the Continent they have to pay Continental taxes but when Continental hauliers come over here they don't have to pay any tax." said Hodgson.
He added that the firm was currently operating 28 vehicles. The international work had been reduced, accountingfor only five vehicles. All the back duty had been paid so there was no profit element.
Partner John Heads said he felt it was unfair to have to pay tax when the vehicles were not in this country. Referring to one vehicle, he said: "I know it should be taxed but I don't feel it is fair on us and I don't see why we cannot have a facility where we only pay for the days we are in the UK."
Hodgson pointed out that the VED convictions were now some time ago. The vehicles had been properly taxed ever since and the firm was running a very good efficient transport operation. "They are sorry for what they have done and l ask you to keep them in the industry," he said.
Although she did not take account of the fact that Heads had left the public inquiry, without returning, on the first day, the deputy TC asked him how she could be satisfied that he accepted the authority of the
Traffic Commissioner as his attitude had been aggressive, threatening and intimidating. "I respect your position and I do apologise," said Heads.
Revoking the licence with effect from the end of the year, the deputy TC said that the firm chose not to pay vehicle excise duty as a protest. That had led to a loss of revenue to the Treasury and it was a criminal offence. They could have afforded to pay the tax and she could not condone an illegal method of protest and evasion.