Scotch Whisky Industry

HC Deb 22 January 1997 vol 288 cc611-2W

Mr. McKelvey

To ask the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on his discussions with the Indian Prime Minister in respect of the Scotch whisky industry. [12144]

The Prime Minister

Although the Scotch whisky industry was not discussed during my meeting with the Indian Prime Minister, it was covered in the meetings between the Indian Finance Minister and my right hon. Friend, the President of the Board of Trade, at one of which representatives of the Scotch whisky industry were present. The Indian Minister indicated that whisky would be involved in a wider programme of liberalising imports of consumer goods into India, although the timing was not yet clear. The Government will continue to press for improved access for Scotch whisky to this potentially very important market.