Chancellor defers alcohol duty decision

Commenting on the Chancellor's autumn statement, with a decision on alcohol duty rates deferred until next year, Chief Executive of the SWA Mark Kent said:

“We welcome HM Treasury’s clarification that any decision on alcohol duty rates will be deferred.

“Over the next few months, we look forward to working with the Chancellor who was true to his word and listened to the industry over the past month as we made the case for reinstatement of the duty freeze. Previous freezes have consistently delivered more revenue for the Exchequer, and have enabled the industry to invest in our supply chain, create jobs, support hospitality – boosting the UK economy.

“We want to thank MPs who have helped to make the industry’s case to the Chancellor, and look forward to working with them to ensure the Chancellor’s decision on duty supports Scotch.”

Ends

The Chancellor was true to his word and listened to the industry over the past month as we made the case for reinstatement of the duty freeze