Even more pubs and bars could disappear

Grave fears that even more pubs and bars could disappear if further taxes are imposed on them next week have been voiced by the United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP).

"The licensing trade could be dealt a near fatal blow if duty goes up in the June 22 emergency budget," said Paul Nuttall, Rochdale's Euro MP.

"The number of pubs and clubs closing each week continues to rise and in the first three months of this year 23 companies from the drinks sector went bust - more than double the number over the same period last year.

"Pubs are the heart of the community and duty increases, the smoking ban and competition from cheap supermarket drink have wiped out thousands.

"We have heard talk of supermarkets stopping offering booze at near give away prices but we have yet to see the reality. This is not only unfair competition for pubs but has also fuelled the binge drinking crisis in this country.

"I would urge the Chancellor not to increase duty taxes for pubs and clubs, to help save this vital industry, and at the same time urgent pressure must be brought to bear on the supermarket chains.

"The smoking ban also needs to be re-addressed, with publicans being allowed to have a smoking room in their premises if they so choose," said Mr Nuttall.