Bath knows better than most just how crucial a role pubs play in the social and economic life of our communities. The British Beer and Pub Association estimate that each pub contributes £80,000 each year to its local economy. As a key part of the Government's long-term economic plan, the pub sector is being supported in a range of ways.
Through the Asset of Community Value scheme, communities can list facilities of local importance, such as pubs. This means that if a pub owner wishes to sell, the community has six months to come up with a plan and funding in order to try to save it. I am glad that more than 1,200 pubs have been listed in this way.
New measures also ensure that tied pubs have rights under a statutory code with an independent adjudicator to resolve disputes. Many pubs have also benefited from the Government's package on business rates for small businesses and I welcome that tax on a typical pint of beer was cut by 1 penny last year, with beer duty escalator being removed altogether. The average pint of beer is 8 pence cheaper as a result.
There is also greater flexibility on weights and measures, allowing beer and wine to be sold in different sizes. It easier now for pubs to play live music and £350,000 has been provided for the Pub is The Hub initiative and the Plunkett Foundation to help landlords diversify and provide essential services such as village shops and post offices.