BOLTON Euro MP Paul Nuttall is calling for an urgent VAT cut for the leisure industry.

He wants to see a cut from the 20 per cent rate down to only five per cent.

Mr Nuttall said: “There should be a change in VAT so drinks in pubs can be sold at prices which are competitive with those sold in supermarkets. Two-thirds of the cost of a pint of beer in a pub is swallowed in tax.

“The Government is supposed to be committed to creating jobs — here is a fantastic opportunity and it will bring in more money to the Exchequer as well as safeguarding pubs which are at the heart of local communities.”