SAVE OUR SCOTCH CAMPAIGN

Early day motion 724, tabled 20 December 2017 by Martin Docherty (Scottish National Party). Signed by 20 members.

That this House acknowledges the on-going campaign Save our Scotch, which is being led by the Unite Union that aims to obtain protection for blended Scotch whisky similar to that of single Malt whisky; notes that under the Scotch Whisky Regulations 2009, Single Malt Scotch Whisky must be bottled in Scotland but blended Scotch Whisky is not afforded the same level of legislation; further notes that the Unite Union has concerns over a growing trend towards blended whisky being shipped abroad in bulk and bottled in various places around the world; recognises that the Scotch Whisky industry plays a vital role in the Scottish economy and directly employs 10,000 workers whilst additionally supporting more than 30,000 jobs across the UK; believes that blended whisky being shipped abroad in bulk and bottled in various places puts many of the jobs in Scotland at risk and that action is required by the Government to ensure long term protection of blended Scotch Whisky in Scotland; and calls for cross party efforts to support this iconic and vital industry.

Signatures by party: Scottish National Party 15, Labour 3, DUP 1, Labour/Co-operative 1.