Stroud MP Neil Carmichael received a special award last week (23 Jan) for his work in helping to secure last year’s historic cut in beer duty in the Budget.

The Conservative back bencher was presented with the new ‘Beer Champion’ award, as well as a unique new beer brewed especially for the occasion.

The special award is a joint initiative from the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA), Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA) to recognise the role the politician has played in supporting Britain’s national drink during 2013.

He was also awarded for his support in scrapping the beer duty escalator, which lead to the momentous cut in beer duty.

All three bodies have joined forces again this year, and are campaigning for a freeze in duty in this year’s Budget on March 19.

Mr Carmichael said: “I am proud to support the beer industry in Stroud and across the country by campaigning for a freeze in beer duty.

“Breweries and pubs are an essential part of the local economy here in Stroud, as well as being the heart of our villages and communities.”

Mike Benner, Chief executive of CAMRA, said: “This award recognises Neil Carmichael for his invaluable support in the campaign to scrap the beer duty escalator.”

Chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, Brigid Simmonds, wanted to thank Mr Carmichael for making a huge difference in achieving the historic duty cut in 2013.

“We are delighted to honour this achievement in the best way possible – with a great new beer,” she said.