Weeeell Lets debunk a few myths.

The differential between the price of beer between the Uk and Mainland Europe is not due to excessive tax in the UK. On the Shepard Neame's brewerys own figures (produced in Court 2 years ago) the actual duty on a pint of beer of average strength (say OG 3.6%) is 0.26p. VAT (Sales Tax) at the point of sale is 17.5%.

Now lets talk that through

Here in South Wales (Valleys) the rough price of a pint is £1.70 - In London £ 2.20 ish. In Whitstable (East Kent) £2.10

2 Weeks ago I was paying £1.30 in Tewksbury (Gloucester) and £1.50 in Evesham.

For my sins I have done the internal audit for a Social Club in Whitstable, and VAT returns for pubs elswhere in Kent. Sorry Lads and Lasses I know what the wholesale price is, roughly a pound a pint, or less when discounted for quantity.

If UK Catters feel that they are being ripped off on the price of beer, the Fault does not lie with the Government. It lies with the Brewers, and the big chain pubs.

Pesonally if the drinking population of the UK boycotted pubs and off licences for a week then the lesson might be learned - Don't blame Gordon Brown, its the brewers who are ripping you off !

Gareth