Tim Farron challenges ministers to cut costs for Cumbria’s pubs

On the floor of the House of Commons this afternoon, Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron made the case for the Government to reduce taxes for Cumbrian hospitality businesses in next week’s Budget.

The Liberal Democrats are calling on the Chancellor to cut VAT from 20% to 15% to boost footfall in pubs, restaurants and entertainment venues.

The party says the move could be funded by a new windfall tax on big banks.

Speaking in Parliament today, Tim said: “The recent Cumbria Tourism business survey showed that 56% of businesses are struggling to pay their energy bills, with an astonishing 14% actively considering selling up or closing down. 

“Once a community loses its pub, it loses its heart, and it very rarely gets it back.

“Ahead of the Budget, will the Minister speak with the Chancellor and others in the Treasury to back the Liberal Democrats’ call for a 5% cut in VAT to support this vital industry, which is, after all, at the forefront of sustainable business practices and at the heart of so many of our communities?”

Responding, the Minister for Industry, Chris McDonald said: “I must admit that, as a regular tourist to Cumbria myself, I absolutely appreciate the joys of a countryside pub in the honourable member’s constituency, and I understand the pressures that they are under. 

“I will leave any commentary on the Budget to the Chancellor at the appropriate time, but rest assured that every day in this job I am making the case for increased competitiveness in British industry.”