Scottish hospitality leaders have warned that pints could cost up to £10 by 2030 unless governments support struggling pubs, restaurants and hotels. They are urging First Minister John Swinney to lobby Westminster to halve hospitality VAT from 20% to 10%, arguing that high costs could lead to closures, job losses and desolate high streets.

More than 100 Scottish hospitality businesses, including Michelin-starred chefs and prominent hotels, have backed the campaign. Supporters point to Ireland’s 9% VAT rate and call for a permanent reduction, alongside greater business-rates relief, saying Scotland’s sector has faced particularly difficult conditions since the Covid pandemic and needs a fairer tax burden.