THE duty freeze on Scotch whisky in the UK budget has been welcomed by a West Scotland MSP.

Conservative Jamie Greene says the move from the UK Government will be a major boost to whisky distillers locally as they aim to recover from the pandemic.

It follows a five-year suspension of tariffs being imposed on whisky exports to the USA being agreed in June.

Mr Greene added that Scotch Whisky is an iconic product, including the whisky produced on the Isle of Arran, and freezing duty is a major show of confidence in the industry from the UK Government.

He said: “This is a major boost for the whisky industry in North Ayrshire and Arran that has been delivered by the chancellor.

“The UK Government’s budget has ensured that local distillers will benefit from a freeze as they strive to recover from the pandemic. It is another welcome development following the deal earlier this year to suspend tariffs on whisky exports to the USA.

“I am sure everyone who enjoys a dram will also warmly welcome Rishi Sunak’s price freeze.”