The King's Speech: what it meant for pubs

King Charles III has delivered his first King's Speech since becoming monarch, with various industries across the UK tuning in to see what updates would affect them.

For pubs and bars, there were a number of topics that will touch on day-to-day operations going forward, but little substance when it comes to major issues facing the industry. 

UKHospitality points out that the carryover of the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill will be important in tackling the scourge of fake reviews and that developments around Martyn's Law will be especially relevant. 

"The announcement of a new consultation on the standard tier, for venues with a capacity of 100 to 799 people, is positive and we will continue to make the case for proportionate and practical measures that work effectively for both businesses and their customers," says UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls. 

King Charles' words kicked off a crucial session of parliament for hospitality businesses at a challenging time for many and with a General Election looming.

"The King’s address featured the emphasis on continuing to improve the economic outlook for the nation and our sector continues to look towards the Autumn Statement for action on other critical areas for hospitality businesses," adds Nicholls. "Most pressing is the looming rise in business rates next April, which will drop an almost billion-pound bill on the sector. An extension of relief and a freeze in the multiplier is essential for the sector to continue doing what it does best – creating jobs, driving economic growth and investing in communities."

Disappointing

CAMRA was quick to share its disappointment with the address, highlighting that the government’s agenda for the coming parliamentary session makes no reference to supporting pubs, brewers or the wider hospitality industry. 

"Earlier this year, in light of the tragic case of the Crooked House in Himley, CAMRA published data showing that potentially unlawful pub demolitions and conversions continue to take place," says chairman Nik Antona. "The King’s Speech was an opportunity for the government to make a firm commitment to pub protection and announce legislation to bolster the planning enforcement tools available to local authorities to deter unscrupulous developers from flouting planning rules.  

"Unfortunately, we are still uncertain about whether the government will act, and they have already ruled out making legislative changes to the Pubs Code to better balance the relationship between pub companies and their tenants, and to improve consumer choice in the tied pub estate.  

"Looking ahead to the Autumn Statement, we hope that the chancellor will take urgent action on energy supply and pricing issues, business rates relief and cutting red tape preventing draught takeaway sales from taking place. We urge anyone who agrees with us to email their MP." 

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