SKIPTON MP Sir Julian Smith has  backed plans to help pubs and breweries.

Sir Julian attended a recent CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale)  event to discuss measures to support community pubs, local breweries, and cider producers in Skipton and Ripon.

The event, led by CAMRA national chairman Ash Corbett-Collins, aimed to highlight consumer priorities ahead of the upcoming Budget on October 30.

CAMRA wants a targeted cut in beer and cider duty for drinks served in pubs, as well as the extension of the 75 per cent business rates relief for pubs.

CAMRA's economic modelling suggests that increasing the draught duty differential to 20 per cent could create thousands of new jobs and contribute millions to the economy.

Mr Smith said: "I was pleased to meet with CAMRA to discuss how we can best support local pubs, breweries, and cider producers in Skipton and Ripon.

"Pubs are at the heart of our communities, and ensuring they are supported through fairer business rates and reduced duty is essential for their survival.

"I will be raising these important issues with the chancellor ahead of the Budget."