MP marks British Pub Week in Petworth

Arundel and South Downs MP Nick Herbert marked British Pub Week by visiting The Star in Petworth.

Mr Herbert met landlady Jackie Carter who showed him how to pull the perfect pint and discussed some of the serious issues facing the pub industry.   

British Pub Week, which ran from 28 October to 6 November, aims to get people back into pubs by promoting their positive impact on local communities.  On average 25 pubs close every week, often resulting in the loss of a vital community hub. Pub landlords have expressed concerns over cheap supermarket alcohol and increasing overheads.   

The Government has already taken action to help pubs but recognises that there is still more to be done.   

Ministers have already introduced a community right to buy - new rights through the Localism Bill which will enable residents to save struggling pubs by taking them over rather than seeing them empty and derelict.  The Government is working to ban the sale of alcohol below cost price, protecting local pubs from unfair loss-leading by supermarkets.  There are also moves to reform the licensing laws, making it easier to play live music in pubs and helping publicans to attract new business.   

After Mr Herbert's visit, Jackie Carter said "It was a pleasure to Meet Nick during British Pub Week here at The Star in Petworth, and discuss a number of major issues currently affecting the licensed trade."   

Nick Herbert commented: "I was delighted to visit The Star, enjoy a delicious meal and see a great British pub in action.  I have always believed that the pub plays a crucial role in community life, and I am concerned about the loss of rural pubs in West Sussex.   

"The Government understands the need to protect pubs, particularly at this difficult time, and is working with organisations like CAMRA to bring in the changes that publicans like Jackie need."

Ends

Notes to Editors

1.      More information about British Pub Week can be found here: http://www.britishpubweek.com/