Scores of MPs call on Government to step forward and save British pubs

MORE than 100 MPs have backed an Early Day Motion (EDM) in Parliament calling on the Government to reduce the tax burden on pubs in a bid to halt pub closures, writes Neville Grundy.

Tabled by Toby Perkins MP, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Pub Group, the motion has rapidly received cross-party backing.

This is partly thanks to the Campaign for Real Ale (which has encouraged thousands of its own members to ask their MPs to support pubs.

The EDM recognises that the recent changes in planning law and taxation have helped the industry, but “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 always pressed the Government to recognise the contribution that pubs make to personal and community well-being by cutting the levels of tax.

Government self-interest should also provide an incentive: the Treasury loses significant revenue as pubs close. Before the autumn budget, Camra will be campaigning for a cut in 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’ve signed it already.

“A number of factors contribute to these closures, including a ‘triple tax whammy’ of high beer duty, business rates and VAT. We would urge all MPs to consider signing this EDM.”

Toby Perkins MP added: “Pubs play an incredibly important role both in our social fabric and our local economies, and so it is great that so many MPs are showing their support.

“There is concern that the overall burden of tax on our pubs is excessive and MPs across the house will continue to make the case to do more to support this crucial sector.”