The Government proposed reforms to Small Brewers Relief will force thousands of small independent businesses to close. In a time when business is struggling to cope with covid-19 and are in urgent need of support, to persist with this reform is irresponsible and an attack on small business.

Small Brewers Relief, introduced by the last Labour government, kick-started a renaissance in British brewing and craft ales. This tax relief allowed thousands of small independent brewers to enter the market, which is dominated by large multi-national brewers that benefit from the economies of scale.

I do not oppose reform. I would welcome help for our regional brewers, who do not benefit from the relief but neither have the economies of scale. However, additional support does not mean pulling up the drawbridge and forcing small innovative brewers out of business.

Reform small brewers relief, but maintain the current relief threshold of 5000 hectolitres. It is a simple ask that is falling on deaf ears of officials and Ministers at the Treasury.

I would like to work with the government to strengthen small breweries, who continue to diversify, creating new products and services from selling merchandise, developing food products, or creating visitor experiences. This economic activity supports the wider economy, creates new jobs, and develops a vibrant small business sector that is the foundation of our economy.

We need a government that backs small business to deliver jobs, growth, and consumer choice. The Conservative Party have turned their back on small business, local companies and family-run firms.

It’s time for the government to get back to basics, and strength the foundations of our economy.

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Small Brewers Relief: Diversity & Choice

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