Local MEP Daniel Dalton has urged the European Commission to rethink its decision to end a 40 year old tax exemption given to small cider producers.

Producers who make less than 33 pints a day enjoy a ‘small’ tax break worth about £2700 a year. Earlier this year the EU ordered the UK government to scrap the exemption but was forced to reconsider its decision after pressure from Mr Dalton and others. The consultation ends this week.

Daniel said: “We are not talking about big multi-nationals but hobbyists and farm gate producers who hold onto this exemption dearly. With artisan cider enjoying a renaissance we need to encourage this industry and protect an important aspect of rural life.”

The EU already allows a similar tax break for small vineyards and micro-breweries.

Mr Dalton continued: “These producers are not getting rich selling their product but they are often custodians of ancient orchards and use traditional methods; both could be lost. I believe we need to treat cider and perry in a similar way to wine and beer.”

The Commission will report in the new year.