Mansfield MP Ben Bradley backs call to cut duty for draught beer to help pubs recover post-lockdown

The plan, which would see venues pay lower duty on draught beer than is paid by supermarkets on bottles and cans, would target support to Britain’s pub trade which has been badly hit by three lockdowns.

Mr Bradley was one of 76 Conservative MPs who wrote to Chancellor Rishi Sunak asking him to introduce a lower duty on beer sold in pubs and clubs.

The MP has been a long-time supporter of the industry and in 2019 received a ‘Beer Champion’ award in recognition of his backing for the Long Live the Local campaign and helping to secure consecutive freezes in beer duty.

“Britain’s pubs have been hit particularly hard during the pandemic after being forced to close,” he said.

"Pubs are so vital to our communities and they’ve definitely been missed, so it’s right that we do everything we can to support them through this difficult time.

“Ninety-eight per cent of all beer drunk in pubs is brewed in Britain, and beer accounts for almost half of all drinks they sell, so cutting duty on draught beer would target help and support to pubs.

“The Government has already provided huge financial assistance to businesses across the country, but a Draught Beer Duty cut could really help by boosting investment and creating new jobs in the hospitality sector.

"I’m sure many residents across Mansfield and Warsop are as keen as I am to visit their local and enjoy a pint as soon as we can.”