Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether his Department has received representations from (a) CAMRA and (b) organisers of beer and cider festivals on the effect of the draught relief provisions in the Finance (No. 2) Act 2023 on their ability to sell alcoholic drinks in sealed containers of less than 20 litres during such events.

My officials and I have engaged extensively with members of the beer and cider industries, including CAMRA, throughout the policy development of the alcohol reforms. This includes discussions about Draught Relief.

The core objective of Draught Relief is to recognise the cultural importance of pubs and other on-trade venues as community hubs and to encourage responsible drinking in supervised settings.

The current policy does not prevent pubs and other on-trade venues from selling takeaway pints. Businesses have the ability to purchase full duty paid containers should they wish to decant from the container and sell beverages for their customers to consume off-site.