A Highlands MP has accused the UK Government of “putting soundbites before Scotch” in a growing row over rising whisky taxes and trade tensions.
Graham Leadbitter, MP for Speyside and the Highlands, home to around a third of Scotland’s whisky distilleries criticised ministers for deflecting questions and failing to support an industry facing mounting pressure.
Speaking in the House of Commons earlier this week, Leadbitter asked the Treasury what assessment had been made of the impact of autumn budget tax hikes on the Scotch whisky industry.
In response, Treasury Minister Torsten Bell avoided the question and instead pointed to export growth, saying:
“Over 90% of Scotch is exported and so will not be directly affected by the Budget measures.
“The industry is set to be among the biggest beneficiaries from the trade deal with India.”
Leadbitter called the reply “scripted deflection” and warned it ignored the real damage already done.
“The whisky industry is a great Scottish success story that deserves our support,” he said.
“But it’s being let down by a UK Government more interested in soundbites than substance.”
He added that tax hikes and tariff changes had already cost the sector over 1,000 jobs and weakened public finances.
“Keir Starmer previously promised to back the Scotch whisky industry ‘to the hilt’ but instead, his government has trampled over the success of our national drink and bottled up investment opportunities.”
His comments reflect broader frustration among distillers, many of whom fear further tax rises and a lack of clarity from Westminster.
Leadbitter warned that more uncertainty could chill future growth.
“If the government has any intention of supporting whisky, they should say so and end the speculation.”
He also argued the tax burden was disproportionately hitting Scotland.
“With over 70% of UK spirits being produced in Scotland, they’ve effectively imposed a tax on Scottish industry, one they see more as a cash cow than an integral part of our culture and our economy.”
Industry leaders have also voiced concern in recent months, calling for long-term stability, fair taxation, and consistent political backing for one of the UK’s most valuable exports.
