Local Conservatives are backing the UK Government’s move to prioritise a meeting with the incoming Biden Administration with the aim of eliminating US tariffs on whisky.

Highland and Islands MSP Donald Cameron said: “I am delighted that Liz Truss is taking this initiative and wish her the best of luck.

“The tariffs, which originated in a dispute between the EU and the US over aviation, have made it harder for our distilleries to sell their premium products to American consumers who ought to be a major market for us.

“A boost for the whisky sector resulting from a successful negotiation will mean more jobs and opportunities for people across the Highlands and Islands who want to work in the sector.”

Councillor Alastair Redman, Argyll and Bute Council’s Policy Lead for Business, Regeneration and Commercial Development, and a resident of Islay said:

“There will be many people here in Islay who will have their fingers crossed for Liz Truss and her team.

“Export markets are very important to our distilleries and, given the global strength of the brands produced in Islay, we stand to do very well from improved access to the US market.

“Island communities like mine need all the jobs we can get, particularly at a time like this, so this negotiation could hardly be more important or timely.”

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