Why is chef Tom Kerridge calling for the government to cut hospitality VAT?

Around two pubs closed each day in the first three months of the year amid pressure from higher taxes and regulatory costs. The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) warned that 161 pubs closed across Britain in the first quarter of the year. This equates to the loss of around 2,400 jobs, with a particular hit to younger workers. It represents a 26% jump in closures compared to the same period last year, with local pubs having come under pressure from rising labour costs, taxes and caution among consumers. Early this year, the government announced business rates support for pubs after warnings from the sector that further tax changes could lead to more closures and job losses. Last week, Sir Keir Starmer calls for pubs to be permitted to serve 'pavement pints' throughout the men's World Cup. And, Prince William called for the protection of Britain’s pubs, making the call during a visit to the aptly named 'Prince of Peckham' in South London where he pulled a pint of beer. A Treasury spokesperson said 'We're backing hospitality by cutting VAT on family attractions and kids meals this summer, reforming business rates, with a £4.3bn support package to limit bill rises, capping Corporation Tax at 25%, cutting red tape and taking action on the cost of living to boost the sector.' TV Chef and Business Owner Tom Kerridge joins Susanna Reid and Ed Balls to discuss. Broadcast on 08/06/2026 Stream Good Morning Britain live, every weekday from 6am on the ITVX 📲 http://daytimelink.itv.com/WatchGMBYT  Subscribe now for more! http://bit.ly/1NbomQa  Like, follow and subscribe to Good Morning Britain! The Good Morning Britain YouTube channel delivers you the news that you’re waking up to in the morning. From exclusive interviews with some of the biggest names in politics and showbiz to heartwarming human interest stories and unmissable watch again moments. Join Susanna Reid, Ed Balls, Kate Garraway, Richard Madeley, Charlotte Hawkins and Sean Fletcher every weekday on ITV from 6am until 9 every weekday! ITVX: http://daytimelink.itv.com/WatchGMBYT  Website: http://bit.ly/1GsZuha  YouTube: http://bit.ly/1Ecy0g1  Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1HEDRMb  Twitter: http://bit.ly/1xdLqU3  http://www.itv.com  #GMB