Government should not play fast and loose with the Scottish Whisky industry

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 5th Jul 2004

Reacting to the Scottish Affairs Committee's Report on the proposed Whisky Strip Stamp, John Thurso, Liberal Democrat Spokesman on Scottish Affairs, said:

"While I welcome the reports over the weekend that the Chancellor is showing some signs of listening to the industry by indicating that the stamps could be stuck on the back of the bottles instead of across the necks, it also illustrates the haphazard way the Government seems to be approaching this legislation. The Government's response says that "it will consider all options for a duty stamp, including that of the label mark" but we are discussing it in the House this week, so not much time for any considered response.

"I urge the Government not to play fast and loose with legislation. Instead of steam rolling the industry into this decision the Government should resume meaningful discussion to find a solution that does not threaten jobs and is workable".