A new survey reveals that 69% of the public are concerned that black market tobacco and nicotine products are damaging high streets and local communities, with over 80% of parents worried about children accessing these products. The poll, conducted by Merlin Strategies, was released as the Commons Treasury Committee begins an inquiry into the growing involvement of organised criminal gangs in high street retail.
MPs Investigate Criminal Gangs on High Streets
The Treasury Committee is examining warnings from the National Crime Agency that at least £1 billion is laundered through criminal high street stores each year. MPs are also focusing on the £1.3 billion in unpaid tobacco duty annually, with HMRC estimating a tax gap of £800 million for cigarettes and £500 million for hand-rolling tobacco.
Public Concern Over Child Safety
The polling highlights widespread fear that illicit products are easily available to children. Claire Jolly, Senior Corporate Affairs Director of Philip Morris Limited (UK and Ireland), stated: “The UK illicit market is out of control, and our children and communities are paying the price. The government needs to get a grip on this spiralling issue by quickly introducing a tough licensing scheme that’s rigorously enforced.”
Anti-Smoking Groups Warn of Enforcement Gaps
Hazel Cheeseman, chief executive of Action on Smoking and Health, told the Treasury Committee: “Most illegal tobacco now on the high street, it is straight up criminality and part of organised crime.” She added: “We need boots in the ground in terms of trading standards ... trading standards has been stripped back and the boots are simply not there on the ground to enforce the law sufficiently.”
Government Crackdown Plans
The Home Office has pledged to target “dodgy” vape shops, barbers, and nail salons to curb organised crime on high streets. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced plans for new laws allowing police and councils to close businesses for up to 12 months, an increase from the current three months. Officials are also reviewing the inclusion of vape shops, barbers, and car washes on the skilled-worker sponsorship list to prevent criminals from obtaining visas. Additionally, police and trading standards will receive £30 million to fund a crackdown, with thousands of businesses set to be raided.
