British pubs closures spurred by rising duties

Date: 19th January 2009

British pubs have been closing at a record rate of almost 40 per week, according to new statistics.

Figures published by the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) show that closures accelerated from 36 every week in the first six months of 2008 to 39 a week in the second half of the year.

Overall, close to 1,980 establishments went out of business during the 12 months, with the BBPA attributing this to a 17 per cent rise in beer taxation.

Rob Hayward, chief executive of the group, commented: "At this time of deepening recession and rising unemployment, the government should be actively looking at ways to support the community asset of the pub.

"Pub closures are a clear demonstration of the extreme financial and economic pressures facing the sector."

Elsewhere, small businesses are preparing for the upcoming self-assessment tax return deadline, with all submissions being due online to HM Revenue and Customs by January 31st.