Ed Baker, managing director at Kingsland Drinks, says: “The Chancellor’s decision to freeze alcohol duty is welcome, and it will help to ease one of inflationary pressures that penalise the drinks industry. We are encouraged that the government has listened to a very united industry in recent weeks and acted accordingly.

“While this step will ease pressure in the short term, we urge the government to tune into the reality facing all parts of the drinks industry and continue to listen. It’s critical we all work to preserve the buoyancy of our innovative and hard-working sector that employs thousands of people nationwide - and brings in much needed revenue to the treasury.

“We also stand united with the WSTA in our frustration at the Chancellor’s decision to scrap the easement for wine duty, which will lead to costly red tape, added complexity and price uncertainty for consumers.  We urge the government to see sense and listen to the industry on this critical matter.”