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Press Release

22/06/2018

Over 100 MPs call on the Government to save the Great British pub

Press Release

For Immediate Release: Friday 22nd June, 2018

Over 100 MPs call on the Government to save the Great British pub

 

More than 100 MPs have backed an Early Day Motion (EDM) in Parliament which calls on the Government to take further steps to reduce the tax burden on pubs in a bid to halt pub closures.

Tabled by Toby Perkins MP, who sits as the Chair of the All Party Group on Pubs, the Motion has rapidly received cross-party backing. This is partly thanks to the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) which has mobilised thousands of their own members to encourage MPs to show their support for pubs.

The EDM recognises the recent changes in planning law and taxation have helped the industry, but asks for more to be done to help pubs, and “calls on the Government to take further steps to support pubs which reduces the tax burden and will enshrine the valuable role the great British pub plays in UK society.”

CAMRA has consistently kept pressure on the Government to implement tax measures that recognise the contribution that pubs make to personal and community wellbeing. Ahead of the Autumn Budget, CAMRA will be campaigning for a cut to Beer Duty and a permanent Business Rate Relief for pubs.

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.”

Toby Perkins MP, Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Pubs Group added: “Pubs play an incredibly important role both in our social fabric and our local economies, and so it is great that so many MP’s are showing their support.

 “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.”

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