NEWS that the Government has dropped plans for a 10% above-inflation tax rise on cider has been widely welcomed in Taunton and Wellington.

Ministers dropped the increase, announced in the Budget, as part of efforts to get laws passed after the General Election was called.

In the rush to secure legislation before Parliament breaks up on April 12, known as the “wash-up period”, Ministers historically have to make concessions in order to ensure bills are approved.

Julian Temperley, owner of the Somerset Cider Brandy Co Ltd, said: “It shows the hold that Somerset Cider has on the national consciousness and is immensely pleasing.”

Labour say the tax will be re-introduced if they are re-elected but Conservatives and Lib Dems welcomed the move.

Taunton’s Lib Dem MP, Jeremy Browne, said: “I am delighted the Government has been persuaded to reverse its increase in cider tax.

“The tax would have harmed independent cider manufacturers across Somerset.”

Mark Formosa, the Conservative Parliamentary candidate for Taunton Deane, also welcomed the decision.

He said: “I warned that it would hit res-ponsible drinkers and also businesses and jobs in Taunton Deane while we’re still struggling with the effects of the worst economic recession in living memory.”

The tax rise for cider came into force at the end of last month after being announced by Chancellor Alistair Darling.