CAMRA wants a rethink on business rates hikes for pubs now and not later, as issue raised at PMQs and cabinet revolt reported.
One of the UK’s most successful consumer groups, CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale, is calling on the Prime Minister to urgently announce a rethink on business rates hikes for pubs in England due to come into force on 1 April 2026.
It comes after a cabinet revolt on the issue was reported yesterday, and the issue was a key theme of today’s Prime Minister’s Questions. Responding to a question from Labour MP Rachel Maskell, Keir Starmer said the Government was looking at what “further support and action” could be provided to struggling beer and pub businesses.
CAMRA – which represents over 140,000 consumers and has been campaigning for pubs, pints and people since 1971 – said pubgoers were demanding action from the Government and the Valuation Office Agency to avoid thousands of extra pub closures in 2026.
CAMRA Chairman Ash Corbett-Collins said:
“Instead of months of uncertainty and the prospect of thousands of otherwise viable pubs having to close their doors for good, the Prime Minister and Chancellor should give in to pressure, accept the inevitable and announce a rethink now.
“Whether through cock-up or conspiracy the Government’s promise of permanently lower business rates for pubs hasn’t happened. Instead, publicans are facing higher bills from April, which they simply can’t afford.
“Pubs are a force for good in communities across the country, bringing people together and helping to tackle loneliness. But they can only survive if ministers think again about these business rates increases and come up with a plan that will save our locals.”
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