A gathering held at Bolney Wine Estate has prompted fresh political engagement with England’s wine sector.
The meeting brought together industry representatives to examine the obstacles and prospects confronting English wine producers.
Horsham’s representative in Parliament, John Milne, subsequently received the role of vice-chair within the Wine of Great Britain All-Party Parliamentary Group.
The cross-party political body operates in conjunction with industry organisation WineGB, concentrating on assistance for vineyards and winemaking operations throughout the country.
Sussex occupies the leading position for vineyard planting in Great Britain, with the wine trade assuming an expanding significance within the county’s rural economic framework.
The sector provides employment opportunities, draws visitors, and contributes to agricultural development.
The event at Bolney Wine Estate was arranged by Mr Milne alongside Alison Bennett, who represents Mid Sussex in Parliament.
Among those present were representatives from the Wine and Spirit Trade Association alongside Charlie Dickens, proprietor of Coolhurst Vineyards situated close to Horsham.
Discussions encompassed taxation on alcohol, expenses related to packaging, assistance for overseas sales, and possibilities for increasing wine tourism within Sussex.
Jonathan Taylor, a cabinet member at Horsham District Council responsible for enterprise and property matters, expressed enthusiasm regarding the parliamentary appointment of the local MP.
Councillor Taylor noted the dedication demonstrated by Sussex wine cultivators, highlighting their contribution to national wine output, with Nyetimber alone manufacturing in excess of one million bottles annually.
Vincent McGovern, policy director at WineGB, conveyed satisfaction with Mr Milne’s appointment.
According to Mr McGovern, his dedication to expanding English wine production and strengthening rural economies would prove valuable to the All-Party Parliamentary Group, with expectations that vineyards both within and beyond his constituency would benefit from this involvement.