CAMRA calls for one penny cut in beer tax

11th March 2008, 12:36pm

The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) is calling for a one penny cut in beer tax in tomorrow's Budget to help stop unnecessary pub closures.

The consumer group is also seeking changes to planning law to prevent pub demolitions and change of use from pubs to shops, cafes and restaurants without planning permission.

New research reveals that the number of pubs closed permanently has increased to 57 a month. Almost one third of pubs closed permanently are being demolished, while 36% are converted to shops, cafes and restaurants, and 33% to some other use, mostly residential.

Mike Benner, CAMRA's chief executive, explained: "Britain's pubs provide an essential amenity for communities and a place for people to enjoy alcohol sociably in a regulated environment, yet the Government's high tax policies coupled with increasing costs are crippling them.

"We need to see action immediately to stop the number of pub closures spiralling out of control making it impossible for many people to benefit from the amenity of a local pub. A 'rescue plan' for community pubs is required and we hope the Government will begin that process."

Benner continued: "We want the Government to recognise that the great British pub is the solution to Britain's binge drinking problems and we need policies and action to support them, not close them."

68 CAMRA volunteer branches across the UK provided figures for the areas which show the staggering levels of pub closures. The survey is based on closures recorded throughout 2007, so the effects of the smoking ban are not yet fully evident.

Weblink:

www.camra.org.uk 

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