PM ‘nervous’ about Scottish referendum

As the Scotch whisky industry strengthens its call for a “no” vote in the referendum on Scottish independence, the Prime Minister has confessed he is “emotional and nervous” about the impending vote.

David Cameron is “emotional and nervous” about the up coming referendum on Scottish independence

The referendum is scheduled to take place on 18 September and a “yes” vote could see Scotland lose its position within the EU, with potential repercussions for Scotch brands.

While the Scottish government has argued Scottish independence would be beneficial for the Scotch whisky industry, last month several Scotch whisky producers, including the CEO of Edrington, signed an open letter calling for a “no” vote, stating a business case for independence had “not been made”.

In an interview with the Scottish Daily Mail while visiting Scotland, the Prime Minister David Cameron admitted he feels “more confident” about the vote, but remains nervous because the referendum “matters so much”.

“I think the debate is going well,” the Prime Minister commented. “I think, the last few visits I’ve made, I’ve sensed that in the business community.

“The commentary has settled down, the argument is going better and I feel more confident.

“But it is a massive decision, so it’s right to be both emotional and nervous.”

Speaking to the news site, the Prime Minister also disclosed how he developed a love of single malt whisky following a visit to the Hebrides where his former boss, ex-chancellor Norman Lamont, introduced him to Highland Park.

“Most of all I love Jura whisky, but I also like Langavulin, Caol Ila, Talisker – almost all of them,” he said. “I’ll willingly try anything.”

The CEO of the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), David Frost, has previously warned of “potential risks” and “huge implications” of a vote in favour of independence.

Meanwhile earlier this year, William Grant & Sons donated £135,000 to the campaign against Scottish independence, Better Together.