THE AGENTS

Graham

Allman

Managing director

GA-Select

Whoever is in government has a strong effect on the trade and value of our businesses and taxation. Summer has arrived at last and our friends in Westminster have left the country to fend for itself. "Thank goodness," we all cry. But what a list of troubles they have left behind for the trade to cope with - most of which could affect the future sale value of treasured and hard-worked businesses.

Take that well-known blunder known as the Home Information Pack (HIP). Though only in the domestic sector at present, it is on its way into the pub trade - and without doubt will affect property value to some extent. No one wants it or sees the need or value of it, so why have it? As for energy efficiency, most pubs are centuries-old, listed buildings - so just how much can really be done? As far as I know, no licensee deliberately wastes energy. If implemented, HIPs will certainly slow down the selling process and could prove a major cause of concern in the lease sector, resulting in dilapidation issues and a further negotiation point for all sectors. With recent events in mind, did you know that HIPs don't cover potential flooding?

Let's touch on a bit of control-freakery: you've got it - the smoking laws. These will effect values positively and negatively. As an avid non-smoker I find the effects of the laws extremely pleasant. But how unfair are they to everyone else? The trade should have had the choice and every outlet given the choice of opting in or out of the ban. Customers would drive the business forward, or not, by voting with their feet. This would affect a pub's profitability and sale value, so operators would be cautious about which route they took rather than following personal preferences.

The trade deserves better from the Government, but as the saying goes, you get the kids you deserve. But to quote the song, "Always look on the bright side of life" - a quality the great people in the trade are renowned for. I can think of worse ways of making a living - and many licensees also have the privilege of working and living in beautiful old properties in inspiring locations. No thanks to the Government, the trade will continue to thrive, providing a satisfying business and lifestyle experience.