THE SNP have released the full message sent from US President Donald Trump to Scotland's First Minister John Swinney on the decision to end tariffs on Scotch whisky.
Trump announced the US would be dropping the tariffs following a visit from the King and Queen to the States this week.
In the wake of the news, Labour attacked Swinney for "taking credit" for the policy move, arguing the president came to his decision following interventions from Labour figures and the monarchy.
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Swinney had discussed the tariff situation with Trump in person last year, once during his visit to Scotland and again in the Oval Office in September.
On Friday afternoon, Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander wrote: "John you’ve been caught red handed claiming credit for something you didn’t achieve. Now you’re doubling down. It’s embarrassing.
"I get it doesn’t fit your world view that the UK Govt was working for this whisky deal before, during & after your visit to DC but those are facts."
But in a humiliating moment for Labour, the SNP released the message sent by Trump to Swinney on Thursday night. It reads: "Congratulations John - you were a very big part of my thinking on the matter of Scotland/Kentucky! President DJT"
The party also revealed that the First Minister and Trump shared a nine-minute call on Friday, in which Swinney thanked the president for taking steps to end the tariffs.
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Swinney said: "I was pleased to receive a call from the president of the United States this afternoon, which gave me the opportunity to thank him personally for ending the tariffs on Scotch whisky.
"The president was clear that our discussions on the mutual benefit of this deal, and Scotland's ability to work with the state of Kentucky, formed a very big part of his thinking. He said that he was pleased to be able to do this for Scotland, together with His Majesty The King.
"We also briefly discussed international affairs, including the conflict in Iran.
"My primary duty as First Minister is to promote Scotland's interests, and ensure that people’s jobs and livelihoods are protected. I am delighted that the hard work of all involved has now paid off."
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