Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Independent Brewers: Small Brewers Relief

06 September 2022 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Owen Thompson SNP Midlothian

EnergyBusiness & Trade

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Owen Thompson raised concerns about independent brewers: small brewers relief in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Owen Thompson raised concerns about small brewers relief and its impact on local breweries, citing the Wild Horse Brewing Co in Llandudno as an example.
  • The MP urged the Government to review the relief scheme to include 20-litre and 30-litre kegs for a 5% duty reduction.
  • The Minister acknowledged the complexity of the current alcohol tax system and noted efforts to simplify and make it fairer for small producers.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Owen Thompson SNP Midlothian

Owen Thompson raised the issue of small brewers relief and its impact on small breweries, particularly in his constituency. He highlighted the importance of supporting local food and drink producers, such as the Wild Horse Brewing Co in Llandudno, which has grown significantly but faces challenges due to rising CO2 prices and energy costs. The MP emphasised that while businesses are not looking for charity, they need help to navigate these tough times and urged the Government to review the relief scheme to make 20-litre and 30-litre kegs eligible for a 5% reduction in duty.

Other contributors (2)
  • Robin Millar Con Aberconwy

    Millar supported Owen Thompson's call, praising local food and drink producers in his constituency. He noted that the Wild Horse Brewing Co relies heavily on 20 and 30-litre kegs but does not benefit from recent duty reductions due to its product strength.

  • Andrew Jones Con Harrogate and Knaresborough

    Jones initiated the small brewers relief review as a Treasury Minister, emphasising the need for growth incentives and urging the Government to implement the findings of the review without delay to end uncertainty in the sector.

Government Response

Alan Mak

Mak congratulated Owen Thompson on securing the debate and highlighted the broader reforms being undertaken by the Government to simplify alcohol tax laws, making them fairer and more aligned with public health goals. He noted that while the current system is complex and archaic due to EU rules, the new reforms aim to support small producers across all categories of alcoholic products. The Minister acknowledged concerns about container size but assured that feedback has been taken into account and indicated upcoming announcements on further details. He reassured MPs that the Government recognises the challenges facing the sector and will continue providing necessary support.

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