A guide to the export and import of cultural goods between Russia ...

United Kingdom
Chapter 3: European Union Member States
If an export licence is refused for any other reasons, can I appeal?
The MLA has the authority to issue or refuse a licence application. You can seek to have
a complaint reviewed by the Parliamentary Ombudsman, an officer of the House of Commons
who is wholly independent of the government, at any time, by asking your Member
of Parliament to put your complaint to the Ombudsman.
Which customs authorities are empowered to deal with the export of cultural goods?
HM Revenue and Customs are responsible for customs in the UK. All customs offices are
empowered to deal with the export of cultural goods.
What other paperwork do I need to export a cultural object?
When you leave the UK you must present the export licence to the customs officials before
the goods leave the country.
When you enter Russia, you must show all the relevant documentation and declare the object
at customs, passing through the Red channel. See Chapter 4 for further information.
What are the penalties if I do something wrong?
The penalties for misleading applications for licences and failure to comply with export
licence conditions range from fines to a maximum of two years imprisonment.
Any licence which was granted in connection with an application where a false statement
has been made or false document/information submitted will be invalid.
The Dealing in Cultural Objects (Offences) Act 2003 makes it an offence to acquire, dispose
of, import or export tainted cultural objects. In this context ‘tainted’ describes a
cultural object which has been removed or excavated from a building or structure of historical,
architectural or archaeological interest – see the Act for full details.
Customs has an enforcement role to investigate and prosecute persons who dishonestly
import or export a cultural object that at the time of import or export they know or believe
to be tainted. Where it is suspected that an offence under the 2003 Act has been committed,
customs has the authority to detain the goods. Customs will seize tainted cultural
objects and prosecute people who commit offences under the Act where such objects are
discovered and there is sufficient evidence to prosecute. The penalties range from fines to
a maximum of seven years imprisonment.
What are the standards of service I can expect to receive?
The Export Licensing Unit of the MLA operates according to a Code of Practice which is available
at: http://www.culture.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/EBB1DC82-258F-4AB0-860F-236B5442ED3E/0/
ELUCodeofPractise.pdf.
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