Local MP seeks answers on further protection for the Scottish Whisky Industry

December 2007

Ochil & South Perthshire MP Gordon Banks spoke out in Parliament recently in support of the Scottish Whisky Industry and its contribution to the Scottish economy.

Mr Banks asked Scottish Secretary, Des Browne what value the Whisky industry is worth to the Scottish economy and whether forthcoming legislation could be tailored specifically to protect the industry. Mr Browne informed the House of Commons that exports of Scotch Whisky are worth £2.5 billion annually to the Scottish and UK economy.

The Scottish Secretary also told the House of his Department’s continuing discussions with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs regarding legislation being considered at the European level to safeguard the intellectual property rights of Scotch Whisky.

During another Question Time, Gordon Banks also raised the issue with Business Secretary John Hutton. Mr Hutton further demonstrated the Government’s commitment to the Whisky Industry as a vital employer and innovator. Mr Hutton also spoke on the international trading implications for Whisky selling around the world and the need for that market to be fair and free. He also confirmed that he had raised that particular issue with the South Korean trade Minister recently.

Mr Banks had this to say – “The Scotch Whisky industry brings in £2.5 billion to the UK economy and it is vital that this is protected. However, this protection needs to be tailored specifically to the Scotch Whisky industry, rather than being part of wider regulation. This will allow Whisky to expand further in overseas markets.”

“The Whisky industry has particular significance to this constituency of Ochil & South Perthshire. We are lucky to have a cooperage, distilleries, coppersmiths and a blending plant and I have been grateful for the opportunity to visit many of these and meet with the dedicated individuals who work there. It is their jobs and the industry’s future that we must safeguard with new legislation and I eagerly await the Government’s proposals to ensure there is adequate international protection for this valuable sector.