§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what initiatives he has taken to support the United Kingdom brewing industry. [52635]
§ Mr. MorleyBy its nature, the UK brewing industry has a number of important interfaces with Government. MAFF works closely with the brewers, and with other Government Departments, to promote a successful and competitive industry, responsive to its particular role in society. The Ministry makes limited contributions to relevant research and development, and has recently supported an industry initiative to enhance perceptions of the opportunities afforded by a career in the licensed retail trade. More widely, the Government have begun a comprehensive review of licensing law; and completed a review of alcohol and tobacco fraud, proposing a number of ways to protect the industry from fraud and smuggling.