Marstons PCN

[hantsman]

Can Marstons charge VAT on a PCN? I know the £11.20 letter fee is legit.

[bluebottle]

Re: Marstons PCN

In a word, "Yes." It is provided for under the Enforcement of Road Traffic Debts (Certificated Bailiffs) Regulations 1993-2003. The provision is contained in the 1993 Regulations and is listed under Schedule 1 at item 10 in the table. I am attaching electronic copies of both the 1993 and 2003 regulations. The 2003 regulations updated the fees. Please note that VAT is not chargeable on the PCN itself, only the bailiff charges permitted under the regulations.

If it appears, after checking what the bailiffs have added together on their account, that the VAT does not tally with the legitimate fees, i.e. it is too much or it is clear VAT has been charged on the PCN and court fees, it would be wise that you file reports with the following -

1. OFT Credit Fitness Team at enquiries@oft.gsi.gov.uk, inserting CREDIT FITNESS in the subject box. Quote "Marston Group Ltd" and "Credit Licence No. 333059" in your complaint. Give a clear and concise resume of your complaint;
2. Your local Trading Standards Department;
3. HMRC on Customs Confidential Hotline on 0800 595000. It is illegal to charge VAT illegitimately, i.e. when not due.

When filing reports, advise each agency that you have or are filing reports with the other agencies. This enables them to liaise with each other, share intelligence and co-ordinate investigations and subsequent court proceedings.