Highlands and Islands MSP Donald Cameron is backing the efforts of the UK Government to secure the scrapping of US tariffs on Scotch malt whisky.

This follows the announcement that tariffs on shortbread are to be scrapped and confirmation that the US will not impose tariffs on blended whisky or gin.

Mr Cameron said: “My congratulations go to International Trade Secretary Liz Truss in securing these very important advances in the trade talks with the US.

“Many producers across the Highlands and Islands will be delighted at this progress which eases access to a very important overseas market.

“However,  we also want to see movement on the tariffs on malt whisky, so I am very pleased that she is redoubling her efforts to secure progress there too.

“I wish her every possible success in her endeavours – it would be a wonderful prize for our whisky industry and the local economy.”