UK: Beer body backs UK pubs minister

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 9 February 2010

Pub minister brings hope to sector

The British Beer & Pub Association has backed the appointment of a 'minister for pubs' within the UK Government.

Current housing minister John Healey will take on special responsibility for pubs in an expanded remit.

The move was greeted as a sign that the needs of pubs, and their financial difficulties, are being taken more seriously within Government.

"We hope this means that pubs will now have a strategic place in Government policy making," said a spokesperson for the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA).

Up to 39 pubs are closing down every week in the UK, according to the latest BBPA figures. A cocktail of higher taxes and less expensive alcohol available in supermarkets have been blamed for falling on-trade sales.

It remains to be seen what Healey can achieve in his new role, given that the UK faces a General Election before June.