Jarrow MP Kate Osborne backs CAMRA's call for government to cut beer tax in bid to save local pubs

The Labour MP lent her support to CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale’s call for the Chancellor to introduce a pub-specific beer duty in the upcoming Budget, to help save pubs from extinction.

Newly-appointed chancellor Rishi Sunak has confirmed plans that the first Budget of Boris Johnson’s government will be delivered on Wednesday, March 11.

In Australia a preferential rate of duty for draught beer is already in operation.

It works by taxing beer sold in the trade at a lower rate than beer sold in supermarkets, thereby encouraging people to enjoy a pint in the social, community setting of the pub.

By dropping tax on beer in pubs, the Government would be encouraging responsible alcohol consumption, and consumers could see a reduction in the cost of pub pint.

At an event in the House of Commons, MPs were shown research commissioned by CAMRA outlining the cost of the new proposal, with Ms Osborne among those who showed their support for the campaign.

She commented: “Pubs are a Great British institution and make a valuable contribution to our economy, society and culture, both in Jarrow constituency and around the UK.

“I was happy to show my support for the proposal from CAMRA which would see a lower rate of tax specifically for beer sold on tap in pubs.

“This would encourage consumption of beer is in a social and supervised setting and would be a real boost for pubs.

CAMRA National Chairman, Nik Antona said: “We are delighted to have the support of Kate Osborne for our lower rate of duty on beer sold on tap in a pub.

“A preferential rate of beer duty on draught beer is a radical proposal that will really help to save our pubs.

“This research is an important piece of work which demonstrates how little it would cost for the Government to take real action and show their commitment to ensure pubs survive and thrive.”