SGSELSG1050 - FOREWARD - SPIRE
Note: This manual is under review following Brexit and is likely to be withdrawn. If there is anything within this manual you use regularly, please email hmrcmanualsteam@hmrc.gov.uk to let us know. Please check the other guidance available on GOV.UK from HMRC.
Electronic Licences
On 3rd September 2007, DBT Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) introduced an electronic system of export licensing for Military and Dual-Use exports and transhipment. The system enables exporters to apply for DBT Export Licences through a web based system - SPIRE (Shared Primary Information Resource Environment). Licences will be issued electronically and stored on a secure web-based database. HMRC and UKBF officers will be issued passwords and access to the SPIRE database for customs control purposes.
All new DBT licences will be issued electronically. Extant paper licences will remain valid until they are exhausted or naturally expire. While existing paper licences will remain valid (these are on paper which has security features) printed plain-paper copies of the new electronic licence will not be acceptable. All electronic licences will have to be viewed in SPIRE to ensure licence details have not been altered.
The SPIRE address is exportcontrol.help@trade.gov.uk
Intra EC Movements - This guidance is no longer extant
Exports from Great Britain to a destination outside the United Kingdom, the licensee must submit a customs declaration prior to export, quoting the number of this licence to the proper officer of HM Revenue and Customs when the listed items are presented to that officer for export or must comply with such alternative arrangements as are agreed with that officer.
Exports from Northern Ireland, for goods on the UK Military List, or dual-use items listed in Annex IV to Council Regulation (EC) No 428/2009, or civilian firearms exported under Directive 91/477/EEC or goods that could be used for torture or capital punishment listed in Regulation (EU) 2019/125, where no pre export customs declaration is required, the licensee must quote the number of this licence to the proper officer of HM Revenue and Customs* at least three working days before the date of the proposed export identifying a location where the listed items will be capable of inspection at any time during those three days, or shall comply with such alternative arrangements as are agreed with an officer of HM Revenue and Customs. * notifications should be sent to it.audit.south.district@hmrc.gov.uk.
SPIRE: Difficulties using SPIRE
If you have any difficulties using SPIRE or queries regarding SPIRE access then please contact The Strategic Exports and Sanctions Team. Contact telephone numbers are shown at SGSELSG1040 of this guidance.