SIR Keir Starmer has set up a secret taskforce amid fears the Iran war could disrupt Britain’s World Cup pints.

Insiders say the so-called “beer committee” has been discussing how to keep supplies steady as global pressures build.

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England fans drink beer during the 2018 World Cup on a big screen in London Credit: AFP or licensors

Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren has been asked to set up the ministerial taskforce

The group, which has already met several times, was established by the PM in response to concerns over CO2 – the gas that gives beer its fizz and keeps it fresh from brewery to bar.

A Whitehall source told The Jattvibe: “The war in the Middle East is clearly impacting Britain’s supply chains.

“But there’s nothing like a cold beer in the sun after a hard day’s work.

“So we’re pulling out the stops to secure our supplies of products like CO2, especially with the summer and the World Cup coming up.”

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The taskforce was formally set up by Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones, who confirmed its creation in the Commons earlier this week.

He told MPs he had been asked to chair a new “Contingency Planning Small Ministerial Group” in response to the conflict.

The group is meeting twice a week to prepare for and blunt any hit to the economy and domestic security.

Meanwhile, industry figures said they are watching the situation closely.

Richard Bradbury, managing director of Yorkshire brewery Theakston, said: “CO2 shortages are always of concern, both for brewers and pubs.

“So far, we have not experienced shortages nor are any expected in the short term, but we are concerned about implications for supply if the current Middle East situation continues.”

A spokesperson for Heineken said there are “no major concerns” at present, but added brewers are working to ensure pubs are in the “best position possible” ahead of the summer rush and the World Cup.

British Beer and Pub Association boss Emma McClarkin said the sector is in close contact with ministers to flag any risks, adding: “With another fantastic World Cup season on the way, and the Government extending licensing hours, fans get more time to cheer on our team while pubs get a much-needed cash boost.”

A Government spokesperson said: “We’re moving fast to minimise the impact here at home of the crisis in the Middle East. 

“For example, last month we took decisive action to shore up CO2 supplies by restarting the Ensus bioethanol plant in Teesside, helping to secure production lines in the UK. 

“The Prime Minister and his Chief Secretary are working hand-in-hand with ministers to drive contingency planning, ensuring we’re doing all we can to support people with the cost of living and minimise impacts at home.”