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Over 100 MPs support tax relief for UK pubs
More than 100 MPs have backed an Early Day Motion which calls on the UK government to “reduce the tax burden on pubs”, according to the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
Tabled by Toby Perkins MP, who sits as the Chair of the All Party Group on Pubs, the motion asks for pubs to receive more support and tax breaks in a bid to save the dwindling industry.
He said that pubs are “incredibly important” to the health of the UK’s local economies.
“There is concern that the overall burden of tax on our pubs is excessive and MP’s across the house will continue to make the case to do more to support this crucial sector.”
The campaign group says 18 pubs a week are closing and the sector needs a major overhaul of taxes.
Sales in pubs, bars and restaurants have fallen by 3.6% in the three months to the end of September last year, compared to the same period in 2016, according to British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA).
The drop in sales is equivalent to Brits drinking 35m fewer pints than they were last year.
CAMRA’s National Chairman, Jackie Parker said: “We know that 18 pubs are being forced to close each week and we welcome the EDM calling for more support for pubs, and the backing from those MPs who have signed it already.
“A number of factors contribute to these closures, including a ‘triple tax whammy’ of high Beer Duty, Business Rates and VAT. It is only by changing government policy on key issues that we will be able to protect the British pub, and ensure it remains at the very heart of our communities.
“We would urge all MPs to consider signing this EDM.”
CAMRA has consistently campaigned for tax measures that provide financial relief to pubs.
The group has successfully campaigned for a variety of issues affecting the beer sector in its 45-year history. In 2017 the body celebrated Chancellor Phillip Hammond’s decision to freeze alcohol duty in the 2017 budget, after it launched a year-long campaign to hold the duty rate, working with 50 MPs to deliver a letter to the Treasury in support of British pubs.