Angus MP claims victory for hospitality sector assistance

Mr Doogan and Emma McClarkin, of the British Beer and Pub Association.

Mr Doogan criticised the “bad timing and bad execution” of the budget, which included a cut in air passenger duty on domestic flights.

He did, however, welcome confirmation that additional assistance will be provided to pubs and the wider hospitality industry - a campaign that he has worked on alongside other elected members and local businesses in Angus.

Welcoming the changes that will benefit pubs and the hospitality industry, Mr Doogan said that the sector has been “crying out” for such support since the beginning of the pandemic.

He also criticised the “callous” cut to Universal Credit.

Mr Doogan continued: "I have listened to, and raised, these concerns and pressed for long term solutions to be implemented.

"I am very pleased that the Chancellor has finally listened to my calls and all of those who called for support for the hospitality industry.

"The reduction in draught beer duty and changes to alcohol duties more generally are hard fought wins for our pubs across our communities.”

While claiming the campaign victory, Mr Doogan highlighted the broader failings of the budget, including support for those on low incomes and action to tackle the climate emergency.

Adding to this, he said: “The budget has done next to nothing for those who will suffer from the callous Universal Credit cuts that have taken place and National Insurance hikes that remain in place.

"The £20 Universal Credit uplift was worth more to more families than the tinkering around the edges that has taken place today which is effectively robbing Peter to pay back Peter less than he had in the first place.

"The UK Government could have chosen to help the people who needed the most help but have chosen not to and that is shameful.

“The UK Government have also failed disastrously on the climate at this budget, just one week out from COP26.

"The Chancellor has rightly been criticised for spending more time talking about cider than he did the climate.

"If ever there was an example of bad timing and execution, Rishi Sunak has provided it with this budget.”