Wine prices to drop as government moves to cut EU bureaucratic red tape

English sparkling wine sales are skyrocketing

«But for too long our producers have been held back by burdensome legacy EU regulations. We will give them the freedom they need to thrive.

She added: “These reforms will give a big boost to our winegrowers' businesses – growing the economy, creating jobs and supporting a vital part of our food and beverages. sector.»

This announcement will be seen as an attempt by the government to rekindle enthusiasm for a bill to preserve EU law.

Earlier this month, the government provoked the wrath of Brexit supporters by softening the bill.

Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch reversed a previous pledge to automatically repeal some 4,800 EU rules left in the UK post-Brexit statute book, replacing it with a more modest commitment to cut about 600 rules. The bill will return to the House of Commons this week, where the government will try to overturn a series of amendments passed in the House of Lords.

Commenting on the wine reform, Ms Badenoch said: “Excessive red tape is holding back innovation and growth. Now we have regained control of our laws and can ensure that they work in the best interests of our business.

She added: «Reforming and moving away from burdensome regulation will help the economy grow and provide businesses with much more opportunities.» necessary freedoms to innovate, create and thrive.»

The government's plans could give a significant boost to the British wine industry. Photo: Chris Gorman/Big Ladder/Chris Gorman/Big Ladder

The changes were supported by the wine industry. Miles Beale, Executive Director of the Wine and Spirits Association, said: «We welcome a number of measures proposed today, many of which we have proposed publicly.»

"Through greater flexibility, wine producers and importers will not will be forced to do things differently, but will be able to innovate.

“Enabling bulk wine businesses in the UK to blend will benefit importers, bottlers and ultimately consumers. while the labeling changes will allow a common back label to be used in both EU and UK markets, keeping the UK as an attractive market for all manufacturers big and small.”

The government said it would soon a consultation on the proposed changes will be launched.