Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Scottish Exports to US Tariffs 2021-02-25

2021-02-25

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
David Linden
▸ Context
Scotch whisky exporters face a significant barrier in the form of US tariffs, impacting trade and revenue. The questioner seeks concrete steps to address this issue.
What steps she is taking to seek a reduction on the US tariffs applied on the export of Scotch whisky from the UK to the US?
Elizabeth Truss
We have been working hard to de-escalate this conflict and get punitive tariffs removed on both sides of the Atlantic. This is the way forward, not escalating the tariff battle.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific actions or timelines for reducing US tariffs were not provided
De-Escalate This Conflict Not Escalating The Tariff Battle
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
John Lamont Con
Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk
▸ Context
Previous successes in breaking down trade barriers for Scottish goods such as Scotch beef have inspired hope for similar progress regarding US tariffs on Scotch whisky.
Does the Secretary of State envisage similar success in removing US tariffs to help cashmere mills in the Scottish borders and Scotch whisky distillers to export to American customers?
Elizabeth Truss
My hon. Friend has been a huge champion for Scottish goods such as cashmere and whisky. These tariffs are damaging on both sides of the Atlantic. Today, we are seeing the confirmation hearing of the new US trade representative, and as soon as that is finished I will be on the phone to her seeking an early resolution of these issues.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific steps or commitments for removing tariffs were not provided
Huge Champion Damaging On Both Sides
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
David Linden
▸ Context
Despite the pandemic, there has been a rise in consumption of spirits in North America, but Scotch whisky exporters face a significant 25% tariff.
There is a danger that some alternatives could move into the space left by Scotch whisky due to tariffs. Has the Prime Minister raised this with President Biden?
Elizabeth Truss
I can assure the hon. Member that the Prime Minister is exercised about this issue, as am I, and we are working flat out to get an agreement to make sure that these tariffs are removed.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Concrete actions or timelines for removing tariffs were not provided
Working Flat Out
Response accuracy