Don Foster MP joins a group outside Downing Street with a giant postcard calling on the Chancellor to
Bath MP Don Foster campaigns in Downing Street to "Axe The Beer Tax"

Don Foster, Local Liberal Democrat MP for the Bath Constituency last week committed to:

  • Promote the interests of Britain’s pub goers
  • Champion well-run community pubs
  • Support the rebalancing alcohol taxation to support beer and pubs
  • Press for reform of beer tie to deliver a fair deal for consumers
  • Support the role of well-run pubs as solutions to alcohol misuse

These commitments are based on a campaign being run by CAMRA, The Campaign for Real Ale which is asking all Prospective Parliamentary Candidates whether they are willing to speak up for Beer Drinkers and Pub Goers. CAMRA’s new Beer Drinkers and Pub Goers Charter sets out a series of options for supporting well-run community pubs, local brewers and consumer rights.

Mike Benner, CAMRA’s Chief Executive welcomed Don Foster’s support for the Charter, saying:

“We are delighted that Don Foster has promised to work to promote the interests of beer drinkers and pub goers. Well-run pubs make a huge contribution to community life, each of which injects £80,000 into their local economy every year. Amid growing concern over the loss of more than 5 pubs a day, it is now more important than ever to support well-run community pubs, to promote local brewers and to protect the interests of consumers.”

Bath MP Don has continually supported responsible landlords, backing ‘Proud of Pubs’ week and calling for the government’s beer duty rise to be axed. Speaking after signing up to CAMRA’s Beer Drinkers and Pub Goers Charter, Don Foster said:

“Well run community pubs play a huge role in promoting social interaction, boosting local economies and encouraging responsible drinking. The proposals made by CAMRA are crucial to ensure the protection of these institutions. I am pleased to back CAMRA’s five commitments and encourage other MPs and parliamentary candidates to do the same.”