A classic Jaguar convertible worth nearly GBP 60,000 has been seized by customs officials in Germany in a row over Brexit import duties.
The luxury Mark VII Jag was confiscated while it was being towed on a trailer in Dortmund, North Rhine-Westphalia, after being bought in Britain.
The 52-year-old driver – whose name has not been revealed by police – had been pulled over for a vehicle check on the city’s A2 autobahn on 3rd February.
During questioning, it emerged that had not paid import duties due on purchases since the UK left the EU.
Now customs officials are holding the Jag until the owner coughs up nearly GBP 18,000 – EUR 20,000 – in duties.
Dortmund’s Main Customs Office spokesperson Andrea Muench said in a statement obtained by Newsflash on Tuesday (7th February): “With the entry into the European Union, import duties of more than EUR 20,000 [GBP 17,778] were incurred for the classic car.
“However, the man could not prove that the old-timer had been cleared through customs.”
Dortmund’s Main Customs Office added: “When entering the country by car from a non-EU country, there is a travel allowance of EUR 300 [GBP 266] for carried goods.
“If this limit is exceeded, import duties are payable.”
It is not clear whether the owner has paid the duty or is appealing the duty.
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Story By: Georgina Jadikovska, Sub-Editor: Marija Stojkoska, Agency: Newsflash
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