admin
LONDON. – British finance minister Rishi Sunak announced what he called the biggest cut in taxes on beer in decades and the most radical simplification of alcohol duties in over a century in a boost to pubs as they struggle to recover from the coronavirus pandemic.
In his budget statement, Sunak said the current system of alcohol taxes, which dates back to 1643, was outdated and too complicated as he outlined a new principle, which will see some stronger drinks become more expensive.
Sunak told parliament that a planned increase in taxes on spirits, wine, cider, and beer will be cancelled from yesterday. The freeze in alcohol taxes and the simplification of duties will lower taxes by between 565 million and 775 million pounds a year.
”Our reforms make the alcohol duty system simpler, fairer and healthier,” Sunak said.
The cuts will spare voters another hit to their income at a time when inflation is the highest in almost a decade and some people have suffered lower wages as businesses were forced to close last year during the pandemic.
Pubs in Britain have faced some of the strictest restrictions of any industry during the pandemic, including months of mandatory closures, curfews, and a requirement that drinkers only be served if they have ordered a substantial meal. – Reuters
Online Reporter