Lib Dems fear budget will close more Oldham pubs

1.48.28pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 17th Apr 2009

Elwyn Watkins is concerned that more local pubs and working men's clubs could close if Alistair Darling announces any further rises in beer tax in his budget next week.

Elwyn, Parliamentary Spokesperson for Oldham East & Saddleworth said, "I have been contacted by many landlords recently, and they fear that they will go out of business if things continue is they are.

"The danger is that experienced and responsible landlords will go out of business, while all-you-can drink offers and irresponsible promotions will be all that is left.

"The English pub is a traditional part of our landscape and can play a key part in social cohesion.

"Further rises would counter-productive. It will lead to more people drinking at home and further job losses."

According to the Axe The Beer Tax - Save The Pub campaign, more than 2,000 pubs have closed in the UK with a loss of 20,000 jobs, and that a further 75,000 jobs are threatened by government tax increases.

Related Link:

Save The Pub Camapign .