Justin Tomlinson MP with Andy Tighe of the British Beer and Pub Association
Justin Tomlinson MP today attended an event hosted by the British Beer and Pub Association to highlight the economic contribution the brewing and pub industry makes up and down the country.
In North Swindon alone, over 1500 jobs depend on brewing and pubs, which accounts for £20m of local wages and a contribution of over £30m to the local economy. Nationally these figures add up to nearly one million jobs and a £20bn contribution to the UK economy.
Crucially, 46% of the one million jobs in these industries are filled by 16-24 year olds. These figures show how important the industry is to UK GDP and to youth employment and yet the industry is stifled by tax. Britons pay 40% of the EU beer tax bill but consume only 13% of the beer.
Justin Tomlinson MP said “We need to recognise that the beer and pub industry are a crucial part of our economy, providing growth and jobs. It is fantastic to see over 400 young people in North Swindon employed in the industry and such a significant contribution to our local economy. It is vital that we do all we can to keep pubs open at a time when many are struggling.”