In 2013, the Government took the decision to end the beer duty escalator, and beer duty has been frozen or cut several times since then. Duty on spirits has been frozen over the past two years. I have spoken with colleagues at the Treasury, who assure me that as a result of these changes, a typical pint is cheaper than it would have been had these measures not been introduced.
I welcome the announcement that for the second time in 20 years every alcohol duty has been frozen, meaning that duty on spirits, beer, wine, and cider will be frozen.
I want to see the Government continue to support pubs and keep costs down for consumers. Any decision to modify alcohol duty in the future is a matter for the Treasury. I have ensured my colleagues are aware of the points raised on this issue and reminded them of the importance of local pubs in our communities.
