Tax rise could call time on more pubs

THE Golden Buck, Manchester Road, Hollinwood: handsome building hasn't avoided closure

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MORE pubs could go to the wall if tomorrow’s dreaded Budget sees beer tax rocket.

That’s the view of local Liberal Democrat spokesman Elwyn Watkins, who fears Oldham could be about to witness more boarded up boozers if Chancellor Alistair Darling announces any further rises in beer tax.

The Oldham East and Saddleworth hopeful said: “I have been contacted by many landlords. They fear 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 be 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. A further 75,000 jobs are threatened by Government tax increases.