Richard Holden MP understands the vital role of pubs and clubs in our towns and villages. This week, for his campaigning work – leading over 100 fellow MPs to push the Chancellor of the Exchequer to introduce a new lower rate of duty for draught beer – he received ‘Parliamentarian of the Year’ for his work on behalf of the sector. Richard has used the opportunity to launch his ‘Pub of the Year 2022’ awards to recognise the best local pubs in North West Durham.
The Chancellor recognised Richard’s work by name-checking him during his budget (1), to back the campaign for a lower duty for draught on-sales.
This new lower rate of duty on draught beer will kick in from April 2023. Richard is currently campaigning to ensure that this will extend and be the case on all barrels and kegs, 20 litres or larger.
Richard also led calls for the extra financial support that the Government provided during the Coronavirus pandemic to help protect pubs in those difficult times (2).
Commenting, Richard said:
“Pubs are the beating hearts of our communities. I love the pubs in my North West Durham constituency, and it is about time they were recognised for the role they play in our societies. I was also super happy to win ‘Parliamentarian of the Year’ by the Beer Group for my work in dropping Beer Duty.
“That is why I am today launching my ‘Pub of the Year Award’ 2022, to channel our admiration for their hard work.
“My North West Durham constituents will nominate and vote for the best pubs in our area. Please use the following link in order to nominate your chosen pub: www.richardholden.org.uk/richardspuboftheyear.”
Richard looks forward to receiving the submissions, deciding on the winner, and visiting those top North West Durham pubs in the coming months of his Summer Surgery Tour of his constituency.
