The boss of JD Wetherspoon has called on Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to cut pub food taxes ahead of a jump in costs linked to the Budget. It came as the hospitality giant revealed stronger sales for the half-year so far despite selling off more pub venues. Chairman Tim Martin said the company is set to face a £60 million jump in labour-related costs in April, amid increases in employers’ national insurance contributions and the minimum wage.