PUB bosses say thousands of jobs could be lost if the Government does not help them at the Budget.
Fears are rising that beer duty will be put up amid a spate of savage tax raids by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
The British Beer and Pub Association is now calling for a cut in the soaring cost of doing business — as landlords make an average profit of just 12p every time they sell a pint.
More than a million people work in the industry, with more than 100,000 jobs created since Covid began.
But bosses also say a five per cent cut in beer duty in next month’s Budget could create as many as 12,000 new jobs in hospitality, mainly in pubs.
BBPA chief executive Emma McClarkin said: “Our brewers and pubs are helping people earn money, gain skills and experience and support both the local and national economy.
“We are urging the Government to protect the brewing and pub sector to ensure it can remain a driving force for growth and social value whilst keeping the price of a pint affordable for all.”
The Government has refused to rule out further hikes ahead of next month’s Budget.
A Treasury spokesperson said: “Following the spending audit, the Chancellor has been clear that difficult decisions lie ahead on spending, welfare and tax to fix the foundations of our economy and address the £22 billion hole the government has inherited.
“Decisions on how to do that will be taken at the Budget in the round.”