Zac Goldsmith has today pledged support for the Long Live The Local Campaign, to help pubs in Richmond Park and North Kingston keep their doors open. Zac joins more than 100,000 people who have signed the petition so far, including over 200 in his constituency.
Research undertaken by Oxford Economics indicates that breweries and pubs provide 1,740 jobs in the constituency and contribute over £56m to the local economy. With £1 in every £3 spent in UK pubs going to the taxman, British drinkers now pay 40% of all beer tax collected across the EU, despite drinking only 12% of the total beer consumed.
Commenting on the campaign, Zac said:
“Richmond and North Kingston are famous for their pubs – they are a destination for both residents and tourists alike: after a weekend walk in Richmond Park, or on their way to cheer England to victory. Pubs are at the heart of communities across the UK, but with three British pubs closing their doors for good every day, the Government must consider reducing the tax burden placed on beer."
Ms Brigid Simmonds, Chief Executive of the British Beer & Pub Association, said:
“Beer duty has increased by over 60% over the last 17 years and now the UK has one of the highest rates of tax in Europe. When over two thirds of all alcoholic drinks purchased in the pub are beers, a cut in beer tax would go a long way to protecting pubs across Richmond Park. We are very grateful to Zac Goldsmith for supporting the Long Live The Local campaign, and hope that the Government listens to MPs across Parliament and the tens of thousands of people across the country who are calling for a cut in beer tax to protect our pubs.”
Those who want to get involved with the campaign can sign the petition here: https://www.longlivethelocal.pub/