The MP for Burley-in-Wharfedale and Menston attended an event highlighting the new jobs and extra contribution to public finances generated by scrapping high levels of tax on wine and spirits.

Conservative MP for the Shipley Constituency, Philip Davies, was at the event organised by the Wine and Spirit Trade Association.

It publicised independent research by Ernst & Young, which claims 6,000 new jobs would be created and an extra £230 million generated for the public finances if the super tax were scrapped in the March Budget.

The Wine and Spirit Trade Association, the Scotch Whisky Association and the TaxPayers’ Alliance are all calling on the Chancellor to end what is known as the alcohol duty escalator.

Since its introduction in 2008, the escalator has caused the tax to rise by 50 per cent for wine and 44 per cent for spirits.

Mr Davies MP said: “At a time when money is tight, it’s good to hear of a positive step the Chancellor could take to unlock additional revenue to the Exchequer and create 6,000 new jobs. And he can do it by cutting taxes. This important research by Ernst and Young deserves careful consideration by the Chancellor.”