Mundell aims to ‘drive down’ tariffs on whisky

The UK government is determined to “drive down” tariffs on the sales of Scotch whisky overseas in the wake of Brexit.

With whisky boosting the UK economy by about £5 billion a year, Scottish Secretary David Mundell said ministers are keen to open up new markets around the world for the iconic drink.

He spoke out ahead of a meeting on the island of Islay.

Mr Mundell will have talks with representatives of the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) and drinks manufacturers Diageo at the Caol Ila distillery.

Export tariffs on Scotch range from zero to more than 150 per cent, with the UK government now looking at how future trade agreements with other nations could reduce these for products such as whisky, smoked salmon and gin