SCOTCH WHISKY EXPORTS

That this house commends the Scotch whisky industry for their remarkable success in hitting record high exports last year; recognises the significant contribution this industry brings to the UK economy with exports of £4.7 billion; highlights the role Diageo, based in Edinburgh West, has played in this growth with their six per cent increase in Scotch sales in 2018 and the noteworthy role played by this company in wider society through their aims of building stronger communities, enhancing the positive role of alcohol and protecting the environment; expresses concern at the current uncertainty Brexit is creating for this industry as the EU is the largest regional importer of Scotch whisky; and hopes that the Government will create the favourable conditions necessary to ensure this industry continues to have optimum opportunities for growth within this competitive market.