David Mundell to unveil showcase to promote Scotch Whisky at the Scotland Office in Whitehall

Scottish Secretary David Mundell during the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre, Birmingham. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday October 2, 2018. See PA story TORY Main. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

placeholder image — Scottish Secretary David Mundell during the Conservative Party annual conference at the International Convention Centre, Birmingham. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Tuesday October 2, 2018. See PA story TORY Main. Photo credit should read: Aaron Chown/PA Wire

Specially-commissioned by, and on loan from, distillers Diageo, the new display will form the centrepiece of a showcase of Scotland’s finest exports in Dover House, the London-based office of the Scottish Secretary.

It has been designed and built by experts and apprentices in Scotland to display some of the country's finest whisky in a bid to support Mr Mundell's efforts to promote Scottish exports growth.

The Secretary of State will welcome representatives of the centuries old whisky craft of coppersmithing to Dover House on Whitehall, to help launch the initiative to celebrate all that is great about the Scottish food and drink industry.

Crafted for Diageo by Edinburgh-based design and creative consultancy Great Brink from the two crucial materials in the making of Scotch whisky – the showcase has been specially designed to highlight craft skills and to act as a focal point for events promoting Scotland.

The whisky industry makes up for 70 per cent of Scottish food and drink exports, employs more than 10,000 people, and contributes £5.5 billion a year to the UK economy.

The piece of furniture will eventually form part of a much broader display of Scottish products in Dover House.

Mr Mundell said: “I am very pleased to pay tribute to some of Scotland’s more talented craftspeople and apprentices who have contributed to this showcase.

“We all know Scotland's produce, goods and services are world leaders, with the nation’s businesses exporting to global markets. Scotch whisky in particular is the water of life for our economy.

“The whisky industry plays an important role in helping to keep traditional Scottish craft skills alive. I am grateful to Diageo for the loan of this stunning display which shows off those highly impressive skills.

“What Scotland brings to the table is not limited to Scotch, of course. I look forward this becoming a much bigger showcase of a range of Scotland’s finest exports, highlighting those who continue to innovate and push the boundaries of their industries.”