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SPIRE / HMRC Link and TURN Numbers - February 2008

NOTICES TO EXPORTERS - 2008/06

1. The direct link between SPIRE and the HMRC system CHIEF is currently being tested. As soon as this is completed, the link will go live and from then on key information about issued licences will be sent to CHIEF. This data will then feed into the ALV system (Automatic Licence Verification) and declarations that are made will be checked accordingly.

2. Further information on the ALV process can be found on the HRMC website.

3. One of the pieces of key information that will be sent to CHIEF is the TURN number that was entered onto the licence application. This information is entered for each application (if applicable) or from the company registration details.

4. The TURN number is a 12 digit number consisting of the VAT number (9 digits) and a unique identifying 3 digit code. There are no spaces in the TURN number and it does not contain any letters. Further information on TURN numbers can be found on the HMRC website.

5. SPIRE now validates all VAT numbers entered onto application forms, but we are not able to validate TURN numbers. All SPIRE users should therefore ensure that the TURN numbers entered onto their company registration on SPIRE are accurate, and that all TURN numbers entered into any applications are also accurate. If necessary, the company registration can be updated to include the correct TURN number or amend an error in the number entered.

6. If an incorrect TURN number is entered, there may be problems encountered when trying to make your export (as the information sent from SPIRE to CHIEF will not match) so please double check this information when you complete all applications.

7. For further details of strategic export controls please contact ECO.

This notice is for information purposes only and has no force in law. Please note that where legal advice is required exporters should make their own arrangements.

Export Control Organisation

February 2008

NTE200806