Government revives pub minister role
The position of pubs minister has been brought back by the government after calls from the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).
Conservative MP, Bob Neill, will take up the role previously filled by John Healey, which was scrapped after the last election.
However, pressure from over 2,000 CAMRA members appealing for protection for pubs has led to Neill’s appointment with the slightly amended title of community pubs minister.
Neill stated: "The local pub is a great British institution and the social heartbeat of life in our towns and villages, bringing people together and strengthening community relationships.
“As minister with responsibility for pubs, I am determined to protect the valuable role pubs play and help them to thrive.”
CAMRA’s head of policy and public affairs, Jonathan Mail, said that the group was “delighted” with the change in government thinking.
“It is vital that the pub and beer sector has a powerful voice within government to help oppose calls for ever higher taxes and restrictions on pub opening houses.
“The government also has a role in creating an environment which enables pubs to succeed and helping communities save valued pubs under threat of closure,” he added.
Other British beer and pub associations were quick to announce their satisfaction with the news, claiming it showed how seriously the government took the threat of pub closures.
3 Nov 2010
The Drinks Business - Government revives pub minister role
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