SNP leader John Swinney visits The Pot Still to discuss the Scottish Whisky trade.
Shadow First Minister Mr John Swinney MSP today
(Wednesday) called for
the Parliament's Enterprise and Culture Committee to hold an inquiry
into theScotch whisky industry in the light of the Cardhu 'pure malt'
debate. Speaking on a visit to Glasgow's specialist malt pub, The Pot
Still, Mr Swinney said: "The Scotch Whisky industry is one of our
country's most precious resources. Not only is it a major employer and
a vital supporter of Scottish agriculture, but it is a premier league
brand that markets all that is good about Scotland to a global
audience. That is why our Parliament has to act in support of the
industry. I am confident that the Scotch Whisky Association will be make
real progress in resolving the debate over Cardhu at its
meeting tomorrow - but there are broader issues that need to be
examined. The Committee should look at what should form
the definition of single malt, vatted malt and a blend, and, by working
in partnership with the industry, how we can support the Scotch
Whisky Association as it moves to resolve this thorny
issue. The Enterprise Committee should look at the big picture and
take evidence from the industry itself on what it needs to support its
global success. And, given the significance of the industry
to Scotland, we have to see decisions about the industry taken in
Scotland. It is a nonsense that issues which are so fundamentally
Scottish and which are so vital to our national interest, are taken
in London by a Treasury who for years has treated whisky as nothing
more than a cash cow.
The industry's future would be better handled
at home and by working with the industry we can play our part in
safeguarding thisprecious resource."
All pictures by Allan Milligan. email a35m@yahoo.com