More than 100 MPs back Axe the Tax

More than 100 MPs are calling on the government to scrap any planned beer duty hikes in this year's Budget, following widespread concern from the public about the rate of pub closures.

It comes as news emerged yesterday that the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) and major drinks bodies have been invited to meet Chancellor Alisatair Darling ahead of next month's Budget.

Since the Axe the Beer Tax - Save the Pub campaign was launched in November last year by the industry and consumer groups, 20,000 people have signed a petition backing the campaign's aims.

And in a bid to step up the campaign in the run up to the budget, 113 MPs consisting of 50 Labour, 40 Liberal Democrat and 17 Conservative have signed an early day motion backing a proposal to freeze beer taxes.

These calls follow reports showing that beer sales have slumped to their lowest levels in almost 40 years, with sales dropping by nine per cent during last year alone.

Figures have also revealed the number of pubs closing has risen to nearly six a week following an overall 18 per cent increase in beer tax last year.

Rob Hayward, the BBPA's chief executive,said: "The beer and pub industry is not looking for special favours.

"But at a time when the rest of the British economy is receiving tax breaks and public subsidies, the government's planned tax hikes on beer are both unfair and unsustainable."

In addition to political support, the campaign received a sporting boost this weekend, as the BBPA and CAMRA kicked off a postcard campaign at the England v Italy rugby international at Twickenham.

BBPA director of communications, Mark Hastings, said: "The response was hugely positive. Many rugby fans were well aware of the 'Axe the Beer tax' campaign, and most were more than happy to sign up on the spot."

Last week also saw two other separate bids to help the trade when MP Greg Mulholland launched the All-Party Parliamentary Save the Pub Group and trade supporter John Grogan, MP invited ministers to a meeting to discuss solutions for ailing pubs.