A SHOP has had its licence revoked and another was given a warning following visits from West Yorkshire Trading Standards. 

International Food Store, Great Horton Road, and Moor Stores, Leeds Old Road, were discussed at a hearing at City Hall yesterday. 

West Yorkshire Trading Standards applied to have the licences reviewed following test purchases and seizures of illegal tobacco from the premises.

The licensees for both premises attended the hearings and said they were unaware of the illegal trading taking place.

International Food Store had its licence revoked and Moor Stores was given a warning and put on notice regarding any further incidents of illegal tobacco being found at the store. 

The Telegraph & Argus visited both premises last month, but it appeared the International Food Store was no longer trading there and a shop by another name is now occupying the site.

David Lodge Head West Yorkshire Trading Standards said: “As a responsible authority, when during an inspection visit, we find smuggled tobacco and alcohol on a licenced premises we will not only consider a prosecution, we will also initiate a review of the alcohol licence.

"There are fears that the widespread availability of illegal tobacco products will undermine efforts to reduce smoking prevalence by making smoking more affordable and accessible.”

Councillor Val Slater, Deputy Chair of the West Yorkshire Joint Services Committee which oversees the work of West Yorkshire Trading Standards said: “Far from being a victimless crime, the illegal trade in tobacco costs government millions each year in lost revenue, makes it easier for children to start smoking, takes advantage of cash-strapped families, and helps fund organised crime.”