Responding to the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s Budget statement Ash Corbett-Collins, Chairman of CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, said:

On beer and cider duty:

“Despite general rises in alcohol duty next year, CAMRA is pleased to see the Chancellor’s decision to cut the rate of tax specifically on beer and cider served in pubs, clubs and taprooms. This will help pub goers as well as independent breweries and cider producers who sell more of their products into pubs, and recognises the principle that drinking in the community setting of the local pub is far preferable to the likes of cheap supermarket alcohol.”

On business rates for pubs in England:

“Today’s announcement of a new, lower rate of Business Rates for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses could be a gamechanger for pubs in England. If this is done right and we get a fairer rates regime which ends the system where our pubs are penalised with unfair bills, this would help save community locals up and down the country.

“Until a new, fairer system is in force in 2026/27, we are pleased to see that discounts on business rates bills for pubs will be extended into the next financial year, albeit a lower 40%. However, the Treasury should monitor the impact that this reduction in support is having on struggling community pubs to make sure more businesses aren’t forced to close their doors for good.”

On a Government review on access to market for independent breweries:

“Consumers are looking forward to hearing more about the previously announced policy on helping independent breweries get better access to the pub market. If done right, that should mean a better choice of locally-brewed beers at the bar in pubs up and down the country.”

On the increase to the single bus fare cap:

“£2 bus fares have helped to make getting to and from the pub more affordable at a time when the beer and pub trade needs as much support as it can get. Local pubs, social clubs and breweries, which are vital parts of community life, will be worried about the impact of increases in bus fares in England on the number of people who can get to and from their locals in an affordable and environmentally friendly way.”