Pub-loving Prime Minister Andy Burnham has launched a rescue package for Britain's boozers. The Labour leader has thrown a lifeline to the UK's favourite watering holes after revealing plans to slash business rates by 20 per cent for pubs, clubs and live music venues across England from April next year.
The tax cut is expected to save the average local around £1,100 a year, giving a huge boost to nearly 32,000 hospitality businesses. Downing Street said the rates overhaul will be funded by stripping reliefs from businesses that "do not make a positive contribution to local communities" - like vape shops - alongside a fierce crackdown on online tax dodgers.
Burnham's best pint-sinking moments
To mark the boozer-boosting news, we take a look back at the PM's best moments tackling the pumps. Burnham was spotted supping a fresh brew during a high-profile visit to the Hare pub in Harlow, Essex, on Thursday (July 23), to highlight the government's work to back the boozer.
Announcing the measures, Burnham said: "This government will back the businesses that people want to see in their communities. I said I would protect pubs and local high streets – the beating heart of our communities – and that's what we will do." He added: "What we're announcing today is just the start as we work to bring back hope across the country."
Before taking the keys to No 10, the thirsty politician proved he was a man of the people by sinking a cold one on the campaign trail. As Labour's Makerfield by-election candidate, Burnham bought a pint of Guinness during a campaign event at the Holt's Arms on June 5.
Football pint ban and booze tax blitz
Footie fans could soon be supping pints in their seats too after the Prime Minister slammed the ancient 40-year stadium booze ban. Earlier this month, the die-hard Evertonian was seen enjoying a drink in his seat during a rugby league match between Leigh Leopards and Warrington Wolves at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Drinking in view of the pitch was outlawed back in 1985 to stop hooligans, but Burnham branded the rules "wrong" while watching the rugby next to Liverpool Mayor Steve Rotherham, who was happily clutching a beer.
The booze tax blitz is the latest weapon in Burnham's war on the cost-of-living crisis, hot on the heels of cutting VAT on energy bills by five per cent and capping bus fares at £2 across England outside London.
Reactions
Hospitality chiefs across the country have come out to raise a glass to the pub-loving leader. UK Hospitality chief executive Allen Simpson praised Burnham's early move for the high street, remarking that it: "suggests that his affection for hospitality has survived the trip down the M1." However, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch isn't impressed by his plans, saying: "Andy Burnham's ambitions for Britain are too small." Meanwhile chef and pub owner Tom Kerridge told the BBC "£1,000 on a yearly revenue doesn't really make a difference."
