Thursday, July 21, 2016

SCOTCH WHISKY INDUSTRY AND GOVERNMENT WORKING TOGETHER FOLLOWING REFERENDUM RESULT

The Scotch Whisky Association, has announced that the industry is working with the Scottish Government, at what it describes as a vital time for the country’s economy following the outcome of the EU referendum.

David Frost, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, met with Fergus Ewing MSP, Cabinet Secretary Rural Economy and Connectivity, earlier this month to discuss current challenges and opportunities.

Scotch whisky industry and government working together following EU referendum result

All parties agreed that a collaboration between the industry and government was vitally important during such a time of change brought about by the outcome of the EU referendum.

Scotch whisky production plays a vital role in rural communities across Scotland. Distilleries are a source of jobs in areas that might otherwise find it hard to sustain them, and are strongly aligned with wider tourism activities in rural economies.

More than 7,000 workers in the Scotch Whisky industry are employed in rural communities.  And Scotch whisky is a key competitive strength for the Scottish economy and in particular its exports.

Commenting on the news, David Frost, Chief Executive of the Scotch Whisky Association, said: "We had a very worthwhile meeting with Cabinet Secretary Fergus Ewing.  I welcome the Scottish Government's intention to consult consistently with the Scotch Whisky industry, so that we can both work to support the wider economy and sustain jobs during this uncertain period. Such dialogue is particularly important as Brexit negotiations begin, so I am glad we agreed to meet on a regular basis."

The Scotch whisky industry has emphasised its commitment to collaborating and working with the Scottish Government to the benefit of the wider economy, but the Scotch Whisky Association said more can always be done to support the rural economy and boost the food and drink industry.

Posted by Steve Rush