Abolishing the beer tie would be another nail in the coffin of the British beer industry — that's the stark warning from Charles Wells to shadow Lib Dem chancellor Vince Cable.
The MP and deputy leader visited the Bedford based brewer and operator to see how the company was faring in the recession.
Vice-chairman Tom Wells took the opportunity to stress his view that keeping the beer tie was essential. Other Lib Dems, including Greg Mulholland and leader Nick Clegg, have voiced concerns over the tied pub model.
"With a third of our pubs in double-digit growth and the highest ratio of Regional Development Managers to pubs, we are fully in support of the beer tie," said Wells.
"It is in the best interests of the tenants as there is a low entry cost and significant support; the best interests of the consumer as it enables a wide choice of excellent cask beers and the best interest of the community as it guarantees local jobs.
"To abolish the beer tie would be another nail in the coffin for the British beer industry."
Cable said said the trip had been "extremely insightful". He said: "This is a company deeply rooted in the local community.
"I was very interested to discuss with them issues affecting the brewing industry including those relating to deterring irresponsible drinking and how Wells and Young's are meeting the current economic challenges."