World Cider Day

That this House celebrates World Cider Day on 3rd June and recognises the important contribution made by the UK’s 450 cider makers, supporting 65,000 jobs, contributing almost £2.7 billion to the UK economy and sustaining rural communities across agriculture, production and hospitality; notes that more than 98% of apple cider consumed in the UK is made domestically, supporting British farmers and more than 15,000 acres of orchard; recognises the role traditional orchards play in enhancing biodiversity, storing carbon and protecting the rural landscape; acknowledges the pressures facing cider makers from rising costs and increasing regulatory burdens; and calls on the Government to work in partnership with the sector to protect rural jobs and investment, preserve the cider duty differential and support the long-term future of British cider making.