British Beer and Pub Association New Campaign Launch

The Beer and pub industry has set out a manifesto "The Life And Soul Of British Communities"

Brigid Simmonds, chief executive of the BBPA, said “There is a clear and compelling public consensus amongst the British people that the pub is a vital part of their community and the social and economic character of Britain. This is coupled with deep concern at the record number of pub closures we are witnessing today and a resounding call for action to support the British pub.

•80 per cent of all people think that the pub is an important symbol of the British way of life

•71 per cent of people think that more needs to be done to support and promote the British pub.

•77 per cent think that pubs in Britain make a valuable contribution to the economy

•74 per cent of all people think that the planned increase in the tax on beer and pubs next March is not justified.

•67 per cent of all people agree that Government policy should encourage people to choose lower strength alcohol drinks like beer, and 74 per cent support a policy of lower taxation for lower strength drinks like beer.

“It is time for a concerted effort by government, industry and all those who value the pub to work together to adopt and implement policies to promote the great British pub."

The British Beer & Pub Association is the UK’s leading organisation representing the brewing and pub sector. Its members account for 98% of the beer brewed in the UK and own nearly two thirds of Britain’s 54,000 pubs.