A BOLTON brewery is calling on politicians to back moves for an end to a controversial tax policy.

A debate is due to take place in the Commons tomorrow on the “beer tax escalator”, which has seen the tax on beer rise by 42 per cent since it was introduced in March, 2008.

David Sweeney, who owns Bank Top Brewery, in Ashworth Lane, Astley Bridge, and co-owns The Brewery Tap, in Belmont Road, said the debate showed the huge scale of concern about brewing and pubs and the vital role they play in the local economy. A petition signed by more than 100,000 beer fans has been the catalyst for the debate, after a national campaign backed by the Society of Independent Brewers, of which Bank Top is a member, as well as other industry bodies and CAMRA. Mr Sweeney said that if the government abandons plans for further big tax hikes, jobs and pubs could be boosted in Bolton. He said, “As both a brewer and a landlord I employ 20 people directly, as well as supporting other businesses locally through the goods and services that we buy.

“However, we are dependent on a thriving pub industry in order to sell our beers and any further pub closures will hurt us, as well being a huge social loss to the local community.

“Tax is now on average over a pound a pint in the pub and further rises are just not sustainable.”