John Healey MP with Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association.

MP John Healey has backed a campaign to support local pubs and breweries.

The Long Live the Local campaign is calling on the Government to lower VAT and business rates for pubs and an overall reduction in beer duty.

According to the British Beer and Pub Association, the Wentworth and Dearne constituency has 65 pubs, nearly 100 jobs reliant on the sector and contributes £25m to the local economy.

John said: “Pubs are at the heart of our high streets and town centres, they’re a big part of our social life and have an important role in our economy. They’ve been hit hard by the covid pandemic and I want to see the Government doing more to support pubs and small breweries.”