Duty escalator is 'ticking timebomb'

From the Morning Advertiser.
The alcohol duty escalator is a "ticking timebomb" that will lead to further pub closures.

That is the view of BII supremo John McNamara who believes the Government must reverse its decision to increase alcohol duty 2% above inflation for the next four years if pubs are to be saved.

McNamara was reacting to the latest news from the British Beer and Pub Association that five pubs a day are now closing — up 33% on last year.

"We are in a time of recession or at the very best massive economic downturn and the escalator is a ticking timebomb," he said. "We are in real danger of losing vital community assets.

"I will be writing to the Chancellor again."

He added: "Pubs do have a future but we have to be very careful over the next two to three years, through the downturn, and ensure the least damage possible is done by red tape."

• The MA is urging all licensees and their customers to get involved in the campaign to Fight the Hikes. To join the campaign click here.

Remember you can also Ban the Chancellor from your pub by clicking here.

GET INVOLVED - Follow these easy steps:

1. Download a Fight the Hikes Poster and put it up in your pub.

2. Download the Fight The Hikes Petition and get your regulars to join the campaign. Consumer support is vital.

3. Download Extra Petition Sheets.

4. Download the Fight the Hikes Letter and send it to your MP. It asks them to sign an EDM condemning the duty hikes, tells them about the campaign and invites them to the pub to discuss the issues first hand.

5. Find your MP's contact details here. Post or email him the letter.

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