Emma McClarkin, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “The Spring Statement was the perfect chance to sow the seeds of growth but Government missed the opportunity, has not listened to business, and we can now expect to see prices rise, jobs at risk, and growth downgraded.

“For a Government whose mission is growth, there is an alarming lack of a plan to boost the economy, given they’ve buried brewers and pubs under mountains of regulations, rates, and taxes.

“We now predict that, following the Spring Statement and taking into account the new costs coming into effect from April, the sector will now face an additional £70 million per month, the equivalent of 5,700 jobs per month. We can expect to see pubs close at a faster rate which will risk growth and jobs and hurt the communities who rely on them.

“Time is of the essence, so if Government truly wants to unlock growth and support jobs they must reform business rates, deregulate, review the new chaotic and punishing EPR fees, and phase in employment costs.”