Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what discussions they have had with the European Commission following its formal request that the United Kingdom end the tax exemption currently available to small cider producers.

The government’s support for small cider makers has helped create a diverse and vibrant market, improving consumer choice and creating jobs. We are therefore studying the Commission’s arguments carefully, but the government’s support for this unique British industry will continue.

Most recently, to support the wider industry, the duty on lower strength cider was cut by 2 per cent at Budget 2015, with a similar benefit in cash terms for higher strength still cider.