In a consultation paper, the government set out its strategy to beat the fraudsters, by setting objectives and targets and the resources required to achieve the targets.

Its approach includes an increase in the rate of checks carried out on spirits entering the UK, tougher controls on excise warehouses within the UK, and more resources to support investigations into diesel fraud.

In an attempt to stop lorries from filling up in countries where there is less duty on fuel, the government will push for tougher penalties for suppliers and users of illicit diesel, and tougher obligations on distributors of rebated fuels.

The government also said it is issuing a consultation on the costs, benefits and practicalities of introducing a tax stamps system to assist in the identification of smuggled alcohol.