Flynn challenges UK Government on 'wholly unacceptable' English whisky decision

Scotland's Economy Secretary Stephen Flynn has written to the UK Government's Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary Dame Angela Eagle, urging them to reverse the decision to grant protected geographical indication (GI) status to English whisky. Flynn described the move as "wholly unacceptable" and warned that it could undermine the vital Scotch whisky industry.

He expressed concerns that the process for English whisky's GI status differs from that of Scotch whisky, with some production steps allowed outside the single site, which he said "undermines the reputation of the term single malt." Flynn emphasized that the decision could weaken the internationally-recognised meaning of single malt whisky and compromise standards in global markets.

He also highlighted that the requirement for copper pot stills in malt whisky production is being removed, raising questions about the integrity of the whisky being produced. Flynn expressed frustration that the protected status was granted "outwith the agreed process" between the governments. UK Government spokesperson Stephen Morgan insisted that Scotch whisky's protected status, reputation, and production requirements remain unchanged. He clarified that the recognition of English whisky's GI does not alter these aspects.