Motion 15
Brewing Whisky & Spirits – An Industry to Be Proud Of
“That this Congress recognises the thousands of well-paid and skilled jobs across Scotland in brewing, whisky and spirits (BWS) and the millions it brings to the UK Treasury through its high quality and iconic produce; but recognises BWS is being bombarded from all sides undermining one of Scotland’s key economic success stories.
“Congress condemns the Tories’ inequitable 2023 tax hike of 10.1% on spirits which reduced Treasury tax income, and the further hammer blow via the Labour UK Government’s RPI increase in the 2024 Budget; and notes that using the sector as a piggy bank by increasing prices will damage jobs and pay growth and is disproportionately punitive against the lowest earners who enjoy alcohol responsibly.
“Congress condemns MSPs using the sector as a political football in the public health debate undermining the sector’s success and the hypocrisy of allowing alcohol at sporting events, but not football, thereby demonising fans.
“Congress believes steps must be taken to alleviate pressures to not just maintain but grow Scottish jobs in BWS; believes that a return of tariffs on Scotch whisky and American bourbon would be damaging to industry and jobs here and in the USA; notes that single malt Scotch whiskies must be produced and bottled in Scotland; and believes including blended whisky under this Geographical Indicator would further raise quality and create jobs in Scotland.
“Congress therefore calls on the UK Government to:
- reverse its and the Tories’ tax increases on spirits at the next available opportunity;
- seek to keep tariff free trade of Scotch whisky around the world; and
- include blended whisky under the Geographical Indicator for Scotch whisky so they too must be bottled in Scotland.
“Congress calls on the Scottish Government to end the blanket ban on alcohol at football matches.”
Mover: GMB Scotland
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