Stone highlights the importance of the whisky industry in parliamentary motion after report shows it contributed £7.1 billion to the UK economy
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FAR north MP, Jamie Stone, has lodged a parliamentary motion highlighting the value of whisky to the local and national economies after a report showed the industry contributed £7.1 billion to the UK in 2022.
The Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross representative said Scotch Whisky plays a vital role in the economy and supports 66,000 jobs, 41,000 of which are in Scotland.
Mr Stone tabled his motion following the Scottish Whisky Association's latest Economic Impact Report which said the industry accounts for 77 per cent of Scottish food and drink exports, 26 per cent of UK food and drink exports, and two per cent of all UK goods exports.
The Liberal Democrat MP said: "The Scotch Whisky industry is vital to both our local and national economies. It's hard to underestimate the importance of 66,000 jobs, many of which are based in my constituency.
"All brands should be celebrated. From the largest hitters being sold in 180 markets internationally, to our independent local distillers. Dalmore, Glenmorangie, Balblair, Clynelish and Old Pulteney are all excellent ambassadors of the far north, and do their bit to boosting the local economy through direct employment and tourism.
"As we look to the future, it is encouraging to see decarbonising operations take hold – indicative of the progressive industry that Scottish Whisky is. I wish everyone involved in Scotland's iconic Scotch whisky industry continued success."
While there is room for further growth, the industry warns it continues to face multiple barriers. These include the highest spirits duty rate in the G7 countries, the need for investment on key infrastructure within Scotland and trade deals – including with India – still to be finalised.
Mark Kent, chief executive of the Scotish Whisky Association, said: "The industry has once again proven its economic significance to the UK.
"The past five years have been turbulent for our sector, as we faced retaliatory tariffs in the United States, in addition to the global pandemic and the knock-on economic pressures.
"But the industry has remained resilient, with capital investment directed towards fulfilling our collective sustainability ambitions, creating world-class visitor attractions, and building more distilleries that will help boost jobs and growth.
"Ahead of the UK Spring budget on March 6 and this year’s general election, it is vital that the industry is supported by government so that businesses can continue to invest in the UK economy."
Scottish Secretary Alister Jack, said: "Scotch is not just Scotland’s but the UK’s most valuable food and drink export."
Neil Gray, the Scottish government's Economy and Energy Secretary, said: "The industry is extremely valuable to the Scottish economy in terms of production and exports and, increasingly, also for tourism and hospitality. It supports thousands of jobs – including in rural areas – and is a success story at home and internationally."
The report states that in terms of productivity the industry is second only to the energy sector within Scotland.
