Close Menu
News

SWA calls for all-party support ahead of election

Ahead of the UK’s general election next month, the Scotch Whisky Association has called for “government action that matches its warm words” to support the industry amid “on-going Brexit uncertainty”.

The Scotch Whisky Association has called on all UK political parties and election candidates to support the industry

The trade body made the claims in its new election manifesto, which asks all political parties and candidates to support Scotch and stresses that the £5 billion-a-year industry’s success “must not be taken for granted”.

The SWA has set out six manifesto pledges to boost the Scotch whisky industry. They are:

– ‘Advocate for review of the excise duty system and fairer tax for Scotch’
– ‘Support Scotch exports by delivering on the industry’s Brexit priorities through ambitious trade deals and robust IP protection’
– ‘Promote a competitive business environment for distillers’
– ‘Work in partnership to reduce alcohol misuse’
– ‘Target reform supporting investment in sustainability’
– ‘Support Scotch whisky through the UK industrial strategy’

“We are making a call for all candidates and political parties to show their support for Scotch whisky ­– a strategically important industry for our economy,” said Julie Hesketh-Laird, SWA acting chief executive who will be succeeded by Karen Betts. “The continued success of the Scotch Whisky industry must not be taken for granted.

“With on-going Brexit uncertainty, the Scotch whisky industry needs government action that matches its warm words and that enables the industry to grasp the challenges and opportunities which lies ahead. Support at home is needed to underpin and maintain our position as the world’s leading spirit drink.”

Earlier this week, fellow trade association the WSTA launched its own five-point election manifesto ahead of the snap poll on 8 June.

It looks like you're in Asia, would you like to be redirected to the Drinks Business Asia edition?

Yes, take me to the Asia edition No