CAMRA reveals 57 pubs are closing every month

The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has called for a cut in beer tax after revealing that 57 pubs are closing permanently each month.

A survey by the consumer group also indicates 31 per cent of shutdown pub are being demolished, 36 per cent are converted to shops, cafes and restaurants and the remaining 33 per cent primarily become homes.

CAMRA is calling for a one penny cut in beer tax Wednesday's Budget to help stop unnecessary pub closures due to rising costs and falling beer sales.

CAMRA chief executive Mike Benner said: "We need to see action immediately to stop the number of pub closures spiralling out of control making it impossible for many people to benefit from the amenity of a local pub.

"A 'rescue plan' for community pubs is required and we hope the Government will begin that process with a one penny tax cut on a pint of beer on Wednesday."

Sixty-eight CAMRA volunteer branches across the UK provided figures for their areas. The survey is based on closures recorded throughout 2007.

Mr Benner added: "Pub beer prices have increased above inflation over the last ten years and the Chancellor must give beer a break.

"Supermarket beer prices, on the other hand, have actually fallen in real terms, often making beer cheaper than bottled water.

"Supermarkets can absorb tax rises while small pub operators can't and the clear effect of this is to drive consumers away from the pub and into their armchair to drink cheap alcohol.

"We want the Government to recognise that the great British pub is the solution to Britain's binge drinking problems and we need policies and action to support them, not close them."

Beyond the Budget, CAMRA is also seeking changes to planning law to prevent pub demolitions and change of use from pubs to shops, cafes and restaurants without planning permission.