UK Budget Offers Very Little For Scotland's Pubs

SCOTTISH GOV MUST PASS ON BARNETT CONSEQUENTIALS TO STEM PUB CLOSURES & SUPPORT GROWTH

Commenting on the UK Budget announced today, Paul Togneri of the Scottish Beer & Pub Association said: 

“Today’s UK Budget offers very little for Scotland’s pubs. While measures to support high street businesses in England are welcome, Scottish pub operators will see little direct benefit unless the Scottish Government acts to provide equivalent support north of the border.

“The increase in beer duty is particularly disappointing at a time when pubs and brewers continue to face significant cost pressures. Any further increase in the cost of a pint risks undermining investment, jobs and growth across our sector.

“Scotland’s pubs remain at the heart of communities across the country, but many are still grappling with rising employment, energy and regulatory costs. The Budget does little to address those challenges.

“The Scottish Beer & Pub Association is now calling on the Scottish Government to pass on the full value of any Barnett consequentials arising from business rates support in England and to use that funding to provide meaningful relief for Scottish pubs and hospitality businesses. There is no justification for Scottish firms being placed at a competitive disadvantage to businesses elsewhere in the UK.

“Today’s announcement underlines the need for both governments to do more to back pubs, brewers and the wider hospitality sector. We will continue to press for measures that reduce the cost of doing business, support investment, keep pints affordable and ensure pubs can continue to serve communities in every part of Scotland.”

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Contact: Paul Togneri ptogneri@beerandpub.com

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