Industry bodies fight on for smoke ban concessions

Trade bodies are still fighting for last-ditch concessions for pubs ahead of the smoking ban.​ Despite a new call from the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) for a full ban - to include members' clubs - the BII, the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers (ALMR) and the Federation of Licensed Victuallers' Associations (FLVA) have vowed to continue to fight for other options to help pubs.

Earlier this week the BBPA, the British Hospitality Association and Business in Sport & Leisure joined forces with the health lobby.

The BBPA's desire for action to include members' clubs has now put it in the unlikely position of calling for an all-out ban.

The associations have written to all MPs calling on them to bring in a "comprehensive ban" to ensure a level playing field for all premises including private clubs.

But while other trade associations agree that a level playing field is required, they are still fighting for some concessions for pubs.

The ALMR has rejected the inevitability of an outright smoking ban and is calling for a Commons vote on 'real' alternatives.

Nick Bish, ALMR chief executive, said: "The real choice for Parliament should be between an outright ban for all, or for specific universal exemptions that are based upon the facilities that outlets have - not on the kind of licence that they hold or the sort of food that they serve.

"I understand the BBPA's attitude but I believe there is more to play for on this and other arguments to use to defend pubs' futures."

The free vote among MPs is now mooted for mid-February and it is looking increasingly likely they will vote for a total ban, rather than agreeing to concessions for pubs without food.

The BII and the FLVA are writing a joint letter to MPs to assure them they are still fighting for concessions for pubs which will be financially hit by a ban.

John McNamara, chief executive of the BII, said the organisation totally agreed with the BBPA's desire for a level playing field.

"But we want to highlight all the other options that they should consider," Mr McNamara said.

"We will be asking for a timescale of 2009. If it is an all-out ban we have got to help our members. Small local pubs will just disappear."

Tony Payne, chief executive of the FLVA, said: "We have written to MPs to ask them to help community pubs.

"Our concern is not just for the pubs but for the customer, as a number of rural pubs will be shut down under a ban.

"We are going to put out a joint statement to MPs pointing out that we are not changing ground, and are hoping an MP will put forward an amendment to help licensees."

Speaking at the announcement of its joint initiative with the health lobby last week, Rob Hayward, chief executive of the BBPA, said: "Whatever their views on smoking, we are saying to MPs it is vital that all premises are treated in exactly the same way.

"Any other outcome would make no sense and lead to unfair competition."