In the March Budget earlier this year, the Chancellor announced a cut in the duty rates on lower strength cider by 2%. The measure saved cider drinkers around 1p on each litre of cider.

In the Summer Budget, the Chancellor made a further announcement that the existing duty exemption for small scale cider makers will remain in place until and unless a replacement scheme is established. The European Commission had asked the UK Government to remove the exemption, arguing there is no allowance for it under EU law.

The Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury Damian Hinds recently used a visit to Thatchers Cider's farm in Sandford, Somerset to highlight the fact that the UK cider industry is going from strength to strength. The latest Government figures have revealed record numbers of cider producers in the UK.

Mr Hinds also confirmed that the Treasury will continue to engage with regional cider groups over the coming months to discuss how the Government can best support them.

Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury Damian Hinds said:

'Cider makers play a crucial role in our rural economy, particularly in places like the South West. That’s why I’m pleased that our action to support cider makers is seeing results. As we work with cider makers across the country over the coming months, we will seek to find ways to support them in the future and help maintain the wonderful choice and diversity we have in cider.'