AN MP has written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer calling on him to support pubs.

Mark Tami, MP for Alyn and Deeside was given a Beer Champion 2019 award by the Long Live the Local Campaign last year for his work on standing up for pubs.

The pub trade provides significant employment in Alyn & Deeside and across the UK but is one of the most heavily taxed industries.

Recent years have seen the number of pubs declining, and although that trend has stagnated this seems to be because of a growth in large chain pubs whilst small independent locals continue to shut.

In his letter to the Chancellor, Mr Tami said: “I am writing to you regarding the level of taxation which pubs are subject to.

“As you know, there has been a long-term trend of pubs closing, and whilst this trend appears to have stagnated a closer analysis suggests that smaller independent pubs which represent the heart of many communities are continuing to close and that this difference is being made up by larger town and city centre chain pubs.

“The pub is a vital part of British life and in some communities in my constituency it is the last remaining community amenity. More broadly the benefit of pubs to the Exchequer is well established. Visiting a pub is often a must-do for visitors to the UK and pubs attract more tourists each year than Buckingham Palace.

“Given the vital contribution pubs make to the UK, I wonder whether the Treasury would consider introducing a preferential rate of beer duty for pubs relative to supermarkets and off-licences, allowing them to thrive. I would also be interested to hear your views on the Welsh Government’s High Street and Retail Rates Relief scheme’s success in supporting pubs.”