Not so rosy day for West's cider - Watson
March 24, 2010 4:00 PM
Originally published by Sir Graham Watson MEP
Originally published by Sir Graham Watson MEP
Graham Watson MEP with local cider producer Julian Temperley
South West Cider campaigner Graham Watson MEP has slammed the Chancellors 10% above inflation hike on cider duty (13% when including inflation).
Graham said,
"The Chancellor's chosen a one-size-fits-all solution to an anomaly which that doesn't exist. He doesn't seem to realize cider production costs are greater than that for beer.
Cider producers of all sizes have been investing in the region's many orchards which are very important for our region's distinct character.
I'm particularly worried about how the duty changes will affect the many artisan cider producers. Farmhouse ciders are made from nothing but local apples, and the alcohol contents determined by how much sun we enjoy.
The industry was expecting a hike but nothing this serious. We already have some of the highest duty rates on Cider in Europe. This is a real blow to the region's producers big and small."
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