Tim Page, CAMRA Chief Executive said: “Today’s landmark Parliamentary vote helps secure the future of pubs. CAMRA is delighted that, after ten years of our campaigning, MPs have today voted to introduce a market rent only option for licensees tied to the large pub companies – a move that will secure the future of the Great British Pub.
“The Government was defeated by 284 votes to 269 with MPs from all parties voting in favour of a new clause to the Small Business Bill that will empower pubco licensees to choose between a tied agreement and a market rent only agreement that will allow them to buy beer on the open market. Allowing over 13,000 pub tenants tied to the large pub companies the option of buying beer on the open market at competitive prices will help keep pubs open and ensure the cost of a pint to consumers remains affordable. The large pub companies will no longer be able to charge their tenants prices up to 60 pence a pint higher than open market prices.”
“This simple choice should spell the end of pubco licensees being forced out of business through high rents and tied product prices.
“Thank you to the 8000 CAMRA members and campaigners who lobbied their local MP to help make this happen and to those MPs that voted to support pubs. CAMRA are now urging the Government to accept the outcome of the vote.”
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For further information contact the CAMRA Press Office on 01727 798443 or email Press Manager Neil Walker on neil.walker@camra.org.uk
Pub Code legislation – changes made by MPs today are ‘hugely damaging’ says BBPA
Commenting on the Report Stage of the Small Business Bill in the House of Commons today, Brigid Simmonds, BBPA Chief Executive, said:
“This change effectively breaks the ‘beer tie’, which has served Britain’s unique pub industry well for nearly 400 years. It would hugely damage investment, jobs, and results in 1,400 more pubs closing, with 7,000 job losses – as the Government’s own research shows.
“There are serious legal and competition issues which must be faced, as it rides roughshod over what are previously agreed contracts, and creates an unworkable, two-tier market.
“I hope Parliament will rethink as the bill continues its progress.
“On the issue of family brewers remaining outside the scope of the Code, we have always taken the view that their inclusion is not necessary, provided that this does not result in a distortion to competition.
“As the Government is now saying it will not include these smaller companies it needs to ensure a level playing field throughout the legislation.”
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