Looking at next year’s likely issues to affect the pub trade, Evans said industry members must constantly remind the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the Treasury of the “very strong” case for a further cut in duty.
In the Autumn Statement last month, the chancellor announced a freeze in beer duty, which currently charges drinkers 52.2p per pint.
‘Much more to be done’
Evans added: “UK pubs are overtaxed and face mountains of red tape.
“I would strongly urge everyone in the on-trade to come together to work with a Government that will help British pubs.
“Industry members should unite with one voice to convince ministers to implement this policy to allow pubs to thrive.”
He continued: “APPBG members will be making this case strongly in Parliament and I would urge UK brewers and pub operators to unite with CAMRA to speak up for UK beer and pubs with one voice.”
“I make no apology for arguing that it is better to encourage people to go to the pub to enjoy a beer rather than lounging in front of the TV with a bottle of wine.
“It’s good for jobs, tax revenues, communities and people’s health.”
‘A historic hat trick’
However, Evans also praised UK brewers and beer drinkers strongly uniting behind an important cause.
“Few would have predicted five years ago that the duty escalator would be reversed and beer duty cut,” he said.
“The Treasury’s policies were killing pubs, destroying jobs and victimising UK beer lovers,” he said.
“The chancellor listened; not only overturning the beer duty escalator, but giving UK beer drinkers a historic hat trick of beer duty cuts.
“This shows what can be achieved when people unite behind a strong case.”