MPs raise alarm over future of our pubs

It follows a rise in alcohol duty being backed in the Commons

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A GROUP of MPs have called on the Government to save Britain’s pubs as the Commons backed an increase to alcohol duty in line with inflation.

Ministers were told that struggling pubs may have to close because of the cumulative impact of Labour's economic policies, especially when business rates rise in April.

It comes after reports last week that Chancellor Rachel Reeves is finalising a support package for the industry, expected to include a reduction in business rates.

MPs concluded committee stage of the Finance (No 2) Bill on Tuesday, and supported by 344 votes to 173 an increase in alcohol duty in line with the Retail Prices Index (RPI) from February 1.

However, the Government was warned that policies including the employer's national insurance increase, the minimum wage hike, workers’ rights legislation and now alcohol duty, could be the death knell for many pubs.

Burton and Uttoxeter MP, Jacob Collier, said: "This is an industry that has faced years of challenge - navigating the pandemic, absorbing high energy costs and managing rising prices, which has left many venues operating on very low margins, if any at all.

"Industry voices are clear that further support is needed in the short-term, while longer-term changes and reforms are worked through."