MPs have raised concerns about the heavy tax burden on Britain’s pubs and emphasized the need for significant measures to alleviate the pressure on the industry. The All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group (APPBG) highlighted that recent regulations are stifling the potential growth of the UK’s pub and brewing sector.
Describing the industry as a significant economic contributor, supporting over a million jobs and adding £34.3 billion to the economy, the group emphasized the pivotal role of pubs in high street revitalization, community unity, and economic expansion. The Mirror is actively supporting the campaign to rescue struggling pubs in Britain.
The APPBG outlined a set of requests, suggesting that the sector could see a 6% annual growth rate with appropriate policies, leading to the creation of half a million new jobs by 2030. Recommendations included reducing or eliminating employer National Insurance Contributions, especially for young employees under 25.
Additionally, MPs called for meaningful reforms in Business Rates, a minimum 5% cut in beer duty, and alignment of alcohol-free beer definitions with European standards at 0.5%. They also proposed investments in employment, skills development, brewing innovation, and apprenticeship reform.
Furthermore, the group urged for the extension of capital allowances to cover pub furniture, kitchen equipment, or cellar items, with double allowances for projects supporting Net Zero initiatives like solar panels. Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi, the chair of APPBG, emphasized the need for a favorable fiscal and regulatory environment to spur rapid economic growth in the brewing and pub sector.
Notably, the Prime Minister pledged to reduce bureaucratic hurdles hindering pubs, aiming to relax stringent regulations that restrict outdoor food service, live music events, and operating hours due to noise complaints. A review will engage communities, landlords, and patrons to gather feedback on licensing rules following recommendations for rule amendments.
The Mirror’s “Your Pub Needs You crusade” advocates for a government fund to support pubs, recognition of community-centric bars, and assistance for groups interested in purchasing local establishments. A Government spokesperson highlighted the importance of thriving pubs in boosting local economies and announced initiatives to aid pub owners, streamline licensing procedures, and reform the business rates system.