THE GMB union is calling on the UK Government to bring in a Nissan-style deal to protect the Scotch whisky industry after Brexit.

The union, which represents whisky and spirits workers, has written to Scottish Secretary David Mundell calling for safeguards.

It claims more than 40,000 UK jobs are supported by the sector, with another 120,000 posts related to its production and export, while 7000 of these roles are said to be in rural areas.

Whisky exports are worth £4 billion to the economy and existing World Trade Organisation (WTO) agreements mean sales to the EU are not subject to tariffs. However, trade agreements with markets including Mexico and South Korea, worth around £400 million, were brokered through the EU and the union fears “punishing” post-Brexit charges unless action is taken.

Calling for a deal similar to that given to car firm Nissan, GMB Scotland organiser Louise Gilmour said: “Westminster was quick to pledge support for Nissan, which is also vital, but is frankly dwarfed by the size of the whisky industry.

“We need parity for workers in our whisky industry and the same guarantees that were given to Nissan. Tens of thousands of jobs depend on whisky and the government needs to take action to protect our members livelihoods post-Brexit.

“Our members want assurances that the government will be doing all it can to ensure the whisky sector can thrive, creating new jobs by securing deals with new markets.”