Chris is joining other MPs in calling on the Chancellor in his budget on the 11th of March to consider a cut in beer duty.
UK beer duty is three times higher than the EU average and the rate of 54p for a pint of 5% beer is eleven times higher than in Germany or Spain.
Chris wants to encourage local pubs to stay in business. Not only is the pub part of our national culture it is also highly regarded by tourists as one of the top three attractions of a UK visit.
While the economics of pubs are not solely dependent on beer, the level of beer duty is a significant factor, because 7 out of 10 alcoholic drinks sold in a pub are beers.
345 Christchurch residents have already signed a petition calling for a cut in beer duty.
