Watson hopeful on saving Cider Brandy

6.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 21st Oct 2008

Local Cider Brandy producers were updated on developments in Brussels at Apple Day Celebrations in Somerset this Saturday. Graham Watson, the region's Liberal Democrat MEP who is campaigning on their behalf expressed his hopes that the name "Cider Brandy," can be preserved.

Commenting at the event Graham said;

'I hope that the Member States can reach agreement. The UK Government has made an application for special Protected Geographical Indication status for Cider Brandy. This will take some time, but could put Cider Brandy on a par with the West's clotted cream and Plymouth gin.

EU Solidarity is essential in today's world. But so is the protection of local traditions."

Editors note:-

The European Commission proposed that Cider Brandy be a recognized name, to clear up some uncertainty in the previous 1989 law. However National governments meeting in the Council of Ministers disagreed and dropped this proposal, meaning its use by West Country producers has been placed under threat.

Graham has been working with local producers since last year. He hosted a visit to Brussels by the producers last year and they met with Commission officials.

In a recent meeting with European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso Graham served locally produced Cider Brandy.