AN E-PETITION against alcohol duty backed by the Swindon Campaign for Real Ale branch has attracted 64,000 signatures.

Every year the tax escalator increases the tax on beer by two per cent above the rate of inflation.

The petition is calling for the escalator to be moved at the next budget to help pubs.

It reads: “Removing the beer duty escalator at the next budget will help keep beer more affordable and go a long way to supporting the institution that is – the great British pub.”

Swindon CAMRA Chairman Hans Hoffbauer has warned that the escalator is ruining the trade.

The petition can be found at http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/29664/?friendly_id=saveyourpint