GMB not bowed by BBPA threats

Trade union the GMB, has accused the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) of not having "any real understanding" of the issues licensees face.

The GMB made the claim in response to BBPA chief executive Brigid Simmonds who had threatened legal action over the GMB's plans for tied licensees to take industrial action.

In a letter of response GMB general secretary Paul Kenny states: "It is not apparent that you personally, or your association have any real understanding of the difficulties that tied tenants are facing, of the incredible pressure which the members of your association are putting on members of the GMB within the industry, the drive to deliver more and more cash to service the debts, that a number of your members have because of their leverage activities."

He goes on to say that the union will not bow down to pressure from the BBPA.

"GMB has done nothing unlawful nor does it have any intention of doing anything unlawful and, frankly your threats do not persuade us that your arguments have merit in law."

He adds: "GMB will continue to campaign politically, organisationally through the media, in the courts and where appropriate through the use of lawful industrial action to highlight the damaging impact of the current business model, its unfairness, and the behaviour of some of the members of your association and their actions impact on our members."

In her letter Simmonds said that it was "misleading and wrong" to suggest tied tenants had immunity in relation to trade disputes with their landlord.