It's very welcome that the UK Government is protecting the price of a pint by increasing the generosity of Draught Relief – meaning the alcohol duty paid for drinks on tap at the pub will be up to 11p less per pint than in a supermarket.
This will benefit 2,660 pubs and bars across Scotland now and in the future, as the Conservative Government has given a guarantee to maintain the difference, so the duty paid at the pub for drinks on tap will always be lower than in the supermarket.
Increasing the generosity of Draught Relief will help our pubs in the face of rising prices, alongside the UK Government’s 5p fuel duty cut, decreases to National Insurance, support with energy bills, and cuts to business rates.
Pubs are at the heart of our communities but times are tough right now due to rising prices as a result of Covid and the war in Ukraine.
It is brilliant news that the UK Government is increasing the generosity of Draught Relief, meaning cheaper pints in our pubs.
The UK Government is keeping prices down as it delivers on its priorities.
Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury Gareth Davies, said: “Our local pubs are a core part of British culture so we are doing all we can to support them with rising prices.
“Increasing the generosity of Draught Relief so a pint on tap is cheaper than in the supermarket will keep costs down for pubs in our fight against inflation."
