Trade union backs Axe the Beer Tax

Trade union Unite has come out in support of the campaign to Axe the Beer Tax.

In a statement, the union which represents 20,000 members in related trades, said: "Unite has many thousands of members dependent on a thriving brewing industry for their livelihood and we are happy to campaign alongside supporters of the Axe the Beer Tax campaign to try to persuade the government that urgent action is essential if we are to stop the decimation of pubs in the UK.

"The reasons for the current rate of closures are many and complex, but meaningful engagement must start now if we are to protect jobs and stop further closures."

Meanwhile, drinks wholesaler Waverley TBS is the latest company to throw its support behind the Axe the Beer Tax campaign.

It will be distributing campaign posters to more than 21,000 on-trade outlets in the freetrade sector over the next fortnight.

Managing director, Gordon Johncox commented: "The continued discrimination against this industry through the imposition of increasing duties is creating more instability and reducing volumes to such an extent in the on trade that we have no option but to respond by galvanizing support throughout our business and our customers' businesses."

The BBPA led campaign has received huge support with 25,000 people signing up to its Facebook page and 10,000 letters and emails being sent to MPs.

Next month the BBPA and other drinks trade groups will discuss alcohol duty with the Chancellor.

For more information visit www.axethebeertax.com​