Ross looks for headway on tariffs hitting Moray exports
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Moray's MP has applied to have a debate in the House of Commons about the ongoing tariffs facing some of Moray's most popular products.
Since October single malt Scotch whisky exported to the United States has faced a tariff of 25%.
The duty was imposed by Donald Trump's government in retaliation against the European Union for subsidies given to the Dutch-based aircraft maker Airbus.
Other goods affected by the tariffs include cashmere products made by Johnstons of Elgin and shortbread made by Walkers.
Douglas Ross states he has held a series of meetings with Ministers from the Department of International Trade in recent weeks to discuss the ongoing trade dispute.
He said: "We knew from the moment that these tariffs were imposed on sectors including Scotch Whisky, shortbread and cashmere that this would have a huge impact on Moray which is a world-renowned home to all of these products.
"I’m grateful for the attention that has been given by Secretary of State Liz Truss and Minister Greg Hands who have been keen to work with me to make the case for these tariffs to be removed.
"I’m encouraged that the ministers have confirmed this has been raised by the UK Government at the negotiating table with the US as we seek to deliver a trade deal between our two countries, and that last month Liz Truss again raised this directly with US trade representative Robert Lighthizer.
"I’ve also applied to the parliamentary authorities to have a debate in the House of Commons on these tariffs and the impact they are having on our iconic Moray products.
"I want all the sectors affected to know that removing these tariffs is a top priority for me as the local MP and for the Government.
"I believe the trade deal with the US is an opportunity to get rid of these tariffs once and for all.
"I hope other political parties will get behind our efforts to secure a successful deal for the UK and rid us of these tariffs."
Mr Hands described the he tariffs as "mutually damaging and unnecessary".
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