EU: The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has called on European election candidates to back a beer consumers’ manifesto. David Bowe, Labour candidate for Yorkshire and the Humber, recently launched the European Beer Consumer’s Union manifesto at Whitelock’s Bar in Leeds, The Publican wrote on 13 May. The manifesto urges the European Union to oppose brewery mergers that undermine competition and consumer choice and push for cuts in beer duty in high beer tax member states.

It also asks the EU to strengthen consumer protection by promoting ingredients listing on beer and by outlawing short measures. Head of campaigns Mike Benner, who is set to become chief executive of CAMRA, said: “Europe’s long history of producing excellent beers for local tastes is under threat as large multinational brewers seek to encourage us all to drink the same bland international brands. “The EU has a vital role to play in protecting choice and promoting consumer rights.”

14 May, 2004