Should the UK government do more to support the hospitality industry?

The UK hospitality sector, including around 45,000 pubs, restaurants, hotels, and cafes, contributes over £93 billion annually to the economy and employs 3.5 million people. It faces high pressures from 20% VAT on food and accommodation—among Europe's highest—rising business rates, employer National Insurance increases, soaring energy costs, and alcohol duties, leading to widespread closures and thin margins. The government has introduced measures like a 15% cut and two-year freeze on new business rates bills for pubs, plus energy-saving support for over 500 small firms, amid calls from industry leaders and opposition parties for broader relief such as VAT reduction to 10% and duty cuts.