We the undersigned hereby petition both this government and the next to listen to and act upon the concerns of The Great British Pub, which is part of our history, heritage and culture. The current Chancellor of the Exchequer has hammered the pub with tax hikes, this is detrimental to both a trade already on it's knees and to the government itself as in essence as more pubs close so the revenue decreases. The increase in VAT next year alongside further tax increases will be another factor in the demise of the Great British Pub. We urge this to be reconsidered. The Great British Pub is continually being held accountable for binge drinking, this is simply not the case as the pub is one of the most tightly regulated trades. We urge those who sell alcohol irresponsibly to be held accountable for their actions as irresponsible retailing ensures binge drinking. The smoking ban has had a negative impact on the trade. Smoking is not an illegal activity therefore we urge that this is re-investigated with a fairer sense of balance for smokers and non-smokers alike and the businesses that rely on them. The pubcos have recently been investigated by the Business and Enterprise Committee. We urge that the recommendations set by the Committee are followed and adhered to with all due haste. There are some who consume alcohol irresponsibly and behave in an unwarranted fashion, this is unacceptable. We urge that those who adopt this attitude are held accountable for their own actions utilising the full weight of the law.