Chamberlain takes over as Chair of Whisky APPG

Speaking as the newly appointed Chair of the Scotch Whisky All-Party Parliamentary Group, Liberal Democrat Chief Whip Wendy Chamberlain MP has today emphasised the “vital” importance of the whisky sector and called on her fellow APPG members to show their support for local businesses.  

UK excise duty is currently the highest of any country in the G7, with the average priced bottle of Scotch Whisky already taxed at 70%.

The Moray Chamber of Commerce says the imminent increase in alcohol duty will cost the region £80 million per year. Meanwhile, a Survation poll commissioned by the Scotch Whisky Association found a third of people (35%) would also be less likely to visit pubs, bars and restaurants if tax on alcohol increased.

Ms Chamberlain said:  

“Whisky is one of the most iconic Scottish products. It is vital to my constituency and to the wider Scottish economy.

“Unfortunately, the whisky industry has been poorly treated in recent budgets. The tax rate paid is higher than any other alcohol.

“The Scottish Conservatives have loved to take election photos by whisky stills or swirling drams with Boris Johnson. But they have also left a lot to be desired when it comes to giving the industry meaningful support.  

“Addressing the reasons for why the government failed to honour previous commitments to the industry will be a top priority. More broadly, we also need to ensure that we are discussing how we can reduce alcohol harm.

“It’s time to show that local businesses are more than political props; they are a source of jobs and national pride."