Long Live The Local originally launched in July 2018 to raise awareness of the high number of pub closures across the UK and to highlight that the UK has one of the highest Beer Duty rates in the world.
The campaign re-launched in January 2022 to celebrate the important social, cultural and economic role pubs and breweries play in Britain but remind people that we cannot take them for granted. It calls on the Government to invest in pubs and breweries through the reform of the unfair tax burden – specifically lower VAT & Business Rates for pubs and lower Beer Duty. This will help pubs and brewers thrive in coming years. In turn, this growth will create more connected and vibrant communities, local investment & vital employment and ensures our rich pub and brewing heritage continues for future generations to enjoy.
Long Live The Local is campaigning for the reform of three taxes:
- An extension in the current lower level of VAT for food and beverages sold in pubs with a view to making this permanent
- An overall reduction in beer duty and alcohol duty reforms that support British pubs and beer as a lower strength product
- Lower business rates for pubs equitable to other similar businesses
SIGN THE NEW PETITION FOR PUBS AND BREWERIES.
Due to the impact of the pandemic, pubs and bars have had a devastating time and still face a great deal of uncertainty. The UK Budget will take place on the 23rd of March and our industry needs ongoing help and support. By signing this petition, you are asking Government to lower VAT & Business Rates for pubs and for an overall reduction in Beer Duty as part of wider duty reform.You can sign the new petition here.