Strong whisky trade links

The trade body for Scotland’s whisky industry has welcomed a commitment ensuring a closer relationship with the Scottish Government in the wake of Brexit uncertainty.

ScotchWhiskyAssociation (SWA) chief executive David Frost met with Fergus Ewing MSP, Cabinet Secretary Rural Economy and Connectivity, to discuss current challenges and opportunities during such a time of change brought about by the outcome of the EU referendum.

The body set out that 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

“More can always be done to support the economy”

industry are employed. And Scotch Whisky is a key competitive strength for the Scottish economy and in particular its exports.

But the SWA said more can always be done to support the rural economy, and boost the food and drink industry, so close collaboration with government is necessary.

Mr Ewing said: “We remain focused on pursuing all available options to keep Scotland in the EU, and that means working closely with vital industries like the whisky sector to ensure that we seek to protect their and Scotland’s interests. We are looking to develop a regular dialogue with the industry to find solutions.”

Mr Frost said the meeting with Mr Ewing was “very worthwhile”.

He added: “Such dialogue is particularly important as Brexit negotiations begin.”