Pubs Minister Unveils Help Package
News: March 2010
The newly-appointed Minister for Pubs, John Healey, has revealed plans to support the ailing UK pub sector.
The 12-point action plan includes a ban on restricted covenants that prevent sold pubs being re-opened as pubs; more protection for pubs facing demolition; and more flexibility in planning law for pubs to diversify into other sectors, such as running shops.
Healey also declared that the Government is to contribute more than £1 million to the Pub is the Hub advisory body that encourages retention of community locals, and £3.3 million to support community ownership of pubs.
There are also promises that legislation will follow if pub companies do not respond positively to the recent Business, Innovation and Skills Select Committee Report that stated the need for relaxed beer ties. This should open the door for pub company houses to source local guest ales.
The Government’s aid package has been welcomed by industry figures but comes amid fears that Chancellor Alistair Darling may increase beer duty in the forthcoming Budget.
The newly-appointed Minister for Pubs, John Healey, has revealed plans to support the ailing UK pub sector.
The 12-point action plan includes a ban on restricted covenants that prevent sold pubs being re-opened as pubs; more protection for pubs facing demolition; and more flexibility in planning law for pubs to diversify into other sectors, such as running shops.
Healey also declared that the Government is to contribute more than £1 million to the Pub is the Hub advisory body that encourages retention of community locals, and £3.3 million to support community ownership of pubs.
There are also promises that legislation will follow if pub companies do not respond positively to the recent Business, Innovation and Skills Select Committee Report that stated the need for relaxed beer ties. This should open the door for pub company houses to source local guest ales.
The Government’s aid package has been welcomed by industry figures but comes amid fears that Chancellor Alistair Darling may increase beer duty in the forthcoming Budget.
