TWO pubs in Redditch are to cut the price of all food and drink by 7.5 per cent for one day this week, as part of a campaign to reduce VAT paid in pubs.

The Rising Sun in Alcester Street and The Royal Enfield in Unicorn Hill are reducing their prices on Thursday, September 13, in support of national Tax Equality Day, which is aimed at highlighting the benefit of a VAT reduction in the hospitality industry.

At present all food and drink in pubs is subject to 20 per cent VAT, compared to supermarkets which benefit from a zero VAT on all food.

Pub managers say supermarkets are able to use that saving to sell alcohol at a discounted price, and a similar reduction in pubs will boost the industry's trade and create jobs.

The Rising Sun manager, Joanne Mullen, said: "We are proud to support the campaign to reduce the level of VAT within the pub industry.

"Customers coming to the pubs on Thursday September 13 will find the price of their food and drink is lower than normal.

"We are keen to highlight the amount customers could save if VAT in pubs was lowered permanently.

"A reduction in the level of VAT on a long-term basis will generate growth and create jobs in the important leisure and hospitality sector and help the high street, of which pubs are an integral part."