Taxation changes could push pubs out of business

Date: 28th November 2008

Thousands of British pubs could be put out of business due to recent taxation changes, according to one organisation.

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) has pointed the finger at the decision to raise alcohol duties, stating that it is putting the industry at risk.

Officials from the group claim that the beer taxation will rise by another 40 per cent in the next four years, leading to the closure of over 7,500 pubs and the loss of 40,000 jobs.

Chief executive of the BBPA, Rob Hayward, said: "Pubs play a vital role in communities up and down the country and are an essential part of promoting a more responsible drinking culture.

"The chancellor has rightly decided the whole British economy needs relief from recession - except for one part of it."

He added that the recent changes in taxation would likely push more pubs out of business.

One major issue for business start-ups to consider at the moment is the online self-assessment tax return deadline, which falls on January 31st next year.