New figures from the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) have revealed a continuing drop in alcohol consumption during 2009, which saw the "sharpest" year-on-year decline since 1948.

According to the BBPA Statistical Handbook 2010, a six per cent fall in total consumption for last year was the fourth successive year-on-year decrease, with UK consumption said to be "below" the EU average. The new publication also found that UK beer taxes are some of the highest in Europe and that beer sales comprise 60 per cent of all alcohol sales at pubs, restaurants and hotels. Meanwhile, the ale market has increased its share of sales.

BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmonds said: "These figures will confound many pundits, as yet again they confirm that as a nation, we are not drinking more. Those who suggest otherwise need to focus on the hard facts. "The new numbers show just how closely linked beer is to Britain's struggling pubs, with beer accounting for around 60 per cent of on-trade sales. Policy-makers should take note."