I recognise the social, cultural and economic role played by pubs and understand the difficulties they are facing during this health crisis. The UK Government has cancelled its budget announcement for this year, but the SNP will continue to demand action to protect the sector.
Indeed, the SNP has consistently demanded reform of the UK excise duty structures so that the levies are more in line with strength as well as a fairer tax system for certain products – including beer and Scotch whisky. This must be balanced with consideration of public health.
The SNP will continue to call for support for hospitality more generally during the ongoing Covid-19 crisis.