Mulholland questions Minister on "nice pubs tax"

10.27.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 5th Oct 2009

Greg Mulholland, MP for Leeds North West and Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Save the Pub Group has written to the Government to raise concerns on press reports concerning the impact of the rate review on pubs.

Greg has queried Minister of State John Healey on reports that pubs who have added play areas, beer gardens or even postal services will be hit by unfair rate revaluations. He questioned the justification of raising rates on pubs which improve facilities and encourage community participation, rather than relying on short-term promotions.

Commenting Greg said:

"Pubs work hard to create pleasant environments for people, but they now risk being targeted by the Government for the sin of improving their business.

"With over 55 pubs a week closing, now is the time for the Government to be backing pubs who seek to make themselves even more attractive to customers. I am deeply concerned that landlords who make long-term upgrades to their services will be hit, particularly when these are the pubs encouraging responsible drinking and community participation.

"The Save the Pub Group would oppose any such measure, and we have written to the minister to clarify the position as a matter of urgency."

Ends

Notes for editors:

Report at: http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/130206/Now-Gordon-wants-to-put-a-tax-on-nice-pubs