Commenting on the announcement made by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, that the furlough scheme would be extended by an extra month, Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association said:
“Extending the furlough scheme and committing to a Government contribution of 80% through to the end of April is a hugely positive move. With today’s regional tiering review meaning 85% of England’s pubs are now closed or unviable under tier two or tier three restrictions, Government support is more critical than ever.
“I hope the Government will now turn its focus to a support package to protect hospitality businesses as well as committing to a roadmap out of this crisis in line with the vaccine rollout. Pubs and brewers need enhanced grant support, extended business rates holidays and VAT reductions and a cut to the rate of tax on beer. It is only with that kind of backing that Britain’s brewers and pubs will be in a position to reopen, continue to employ all those staff currently furloughed and help lead the much-needed economic recovery.”
Notes to editors:
The beer and pub sector in the UK employs a total of 900,000 people – 600,000 of which are directly employed in pubs.
The British Beer & Pub Association is the leading body representing Britain’s brewers and pub companies. The Association is more than a century old and was originally founded as the Brewers’ Society in 1904. Our members account for some 90 per cent of beer brewed in Britain today, and own around 20,000 of the nation’s pubs.
Press release from the BBPA
For further information, please contact:
Josh Green, Head of Public Affairs, BBPA: jgreen@beerandpub.com, 07879003467