Tories slammed for playing politics with jobs in UK spirits industry

Tories slammed for playing politics with jobs in UK spirits industry MEPs have negotiated legislation on the definition, presentation and labelling of spirit drinks which aims to ensure that consumers are not misled. Vodka has been especially contentious, since it is made from different ingredients in different countries. Next week the European Parliament will vote on new rules on the production and labelling of spirits such as whisky and vodka. A compromise text has just been agreed between the Parliament and Council covering all the main issues including the ingredients and labelling of vodka. A statement issued by the Tories today apparently withdraws their support for a deal aiming to improve the rules regarding labelling of spirits drinks against the wishes of the industry. Local MEP Brian Simpson has condemned Conservative MEPs for playing politics with British jobs in the spirits industry. Labour MEPs have been working closely with British industry groups to deliver the best deal in new legislation. “The spirits industry employs, directly or indirectly, some 60,000 people in the UK and many are employed here in the North West” commented Mr Simpson. Only yesterday, the British vodka industry wrote to Labour MEPs expressing support for a deal brokered by the Labour Spokesperson on Environment, Ms Linda McAvan.who said: "We're working very hard to get a deal that enables British spirit manufacturers to make the most of Europe's single market. The current compromise on the table is supported by UK vodka industry and backed by Labour MEPs. It will secure jobs in the spirit industry in the UK. That the Tories now seem to have dropped out puts the whole package at risk. They are wrong about the implications of the deal on the table, and they are wrong to oppose it.