For years, red tape has made it harder for pubs to serve food outside, host live music, or even stay open. Now Whitehaven and Workington MP Josh MacAlister is calling time on bureaucracy and asking local punters to join him and back our pubs.
The Government has launched a fast-track review to tear up outdated licensing rules that have been holding back pubs, bars and local events and Josh is asking those who know best to share their views: landlords, punters and communities.
Whether it’s enjoying a pint with friends while listening to a local band, grabbing a bite from a pop-up food stall, or taking part in a community quiz night, the changes being proposed could make it easier for pubs and bars to offer the kind of experiences people love.
By removing unnecessary barriers, the government wants to help venues bring more fun, flavour and connection to our high streets and make it simpler to enjoy the best of British hospitality.
Josh MacAlister MP said:
“I want our brilliant pubs to succeed – both as businesses and because of the value they bring to our communities. Just the other day I was in the King’s Arms in Egremont, which recently underwent a £450,000 refurbishment, demonstrating the commitment of the operator, Admiral Taverns, to the pub and the town.
“I want us to empower publicans like King’s Arms landlady Louise and make it easier for them to operate, so I’m chuffed that the Government is listening to owners, punters and communities to learn what they need. I’d urge anyone who wants to help boost our pubs to take part in the consultation.”
The shake-up could mean more street food, more live music, and fewer hoops to jump through for venues trying to bring people together – all while keeping the public safe.
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said:
“This review will help us cut through the red tape that has held back our brilliant hospitality sector, giving them the freedom to flourish while keeping communities safe. That is the balance we’re trying to strike. We’re determined to back small businesses and bring the buzz back to our high streets.”
The call for evidence is focused on nine key recommendations from the Government’s Licensing Taskforce, with particular emphasis on streamlining on-trade alcohol licensing for hospitality venues. It comes off the back of the landmark Small Business Plan, which in July included the most substantial measures to tackle late payments for a generation while unlocking billions in access to finance.
You can have your say by responding to the consultation at joshmacalister.uk/business
Josh MacAlister MP 