MP in Moray industry visit

THE UK Government Minister for Scotland will stop off at three Moray industry sites tomorrow.

Colin Clark plans to visit Walkers Shortbread and Roseisle Distillery, followed by SSE at its Blackhillock site near Keith.

Mr Clark will discuss opportunities ahead for the food and drink industry as well as renewable energy, and will hear how businesses are getting ready for leaving the EU on October 31.

His visit will also focus on the UK Government’s Contracts for Difference Round 3 results, of which SSE Renewables was successful in securing 2.2GW of contracts.

Mr Clark said: "These industries are vital to Scotland’s economy and I will be discussing how the UK Government can help them flourish as we leave the EU.

"Strengthening the Scottish economy is a key priority for the UK Government and with iconic brands like Walkers Shortbread and up-and-coming products like Roseisle Scotch Whisky, there is much to be proud of in the north-east.

"The food and drink sector will play a big role in the future success of Scotland and the UK as a whole. There is a massive growing global appetite for Scottish products and our amazing producers will be boosted as we open up new markets.

"I am also pleased to meet with SSE at their Blackhillock site, a key supplier who were successful in the latest round of the UK Government’s Contracts for Difference. Scotland is at the heart of the UK’s green revolution, leading the way in innovation, economic growth and highly skilled jobs in the sector."

Mr Clark will meet Walkers Shortbread joint managing director Jim Walker to hear how Scotland’s biggest exporter of food continues to add to its line of products. He will then tour the Roseisle Distillery, before heading to Blackhillock substation, where he will hear more about its role in the £1 billion Caithness-Moray transmission link.

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