This campaign was launched on 27th November by the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) with the support of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

A great British tradition is under threat. More than 1400 pubs have closed since the budget. With echoes of the Great Depression, beer sales in pubs are at their lowest for three-quarters of a century and jobs and livelihoods are being lost.

Yet pubs continue to strive to offer a controlled and responsible environment and play a critical part in the social life of local communities.

SIBA urges its membership of over 650 – including 450 independent brewers, plus pubs and suppliers to the industry – to sign up as supporters to the website and to lobby their MPs.

http://www.axethebeertax.com/ details the manifesto along with the worrying key facts and figures about the pub industry since the 2008 budget. The website provides the tools that can be utilised to maximise awareness of the campaign.