Price of booze WON’T change again spring statement document reveals

DRINKERS won’t have to pay more for booze following today’s spring statement.

As expected, Chancellor Rishi Sunak didn’t announce a hike to beer duty in the mini-budget.

That means you’ll be able to pick up your favourite alcoholic drinks for the same price.

The Chancellor unveiled his spring statement in the House of Commons this afternoon.

A beer duty hike wasn’t expected today as the duty is usually changed in the Autumn Budget.

In October, the Chancellor announced big changes for booze prices.

He revealed that beer, fruit cider and rose wine will be cheaper for consumers as he revealed a shake-up of booze tax rules.

Mr Sunak confirmed a major overhaul of tax on alcohol in the Autumn Budget following a year-long consultation.

Under the reforms, to be introduced next year, lower strength alcohol, such as some beers, rose wine and fruit cider, will be taxed less.

This will make it cheaper for customers. Meanwhile, high strength booze will cost more.

The Chancellor has been urged to bring the cut to beer duty forward to help pubs that are struggling with the impact of the pandemic.

The pub industry has said it could save up to 3,000 venues from closure.

Cutting draught beer duty by 5% will reduce the price of a pint by 3p.

In October, the Chancellor also said he will cut the 28% premium on sparkling wines and the duty paid on fruit ciders.