TIM Martin, the outspoken boss of JD Wetherspoon, has called on pub and restaurant operators to support Tax Equality Day on September 20.

Wetherspoon said the price of all food and drink will be cut by 7.5 per cent on the day, declaring that the move will show the benefits a cut in VAT could have on the hospitality industry.

Trade groups the Association of Licensed Multiple Operators and the British Beer and Pub Association are calling on members to back the initiative.

Mr Martin said: “A reduction in the level of VAT on a long-term basis will create a level playing field and generate growth and jobs in an important and vital industry.”