Pub-operator-turned-MP speaks up for pubs

A multiple operator turned new MP has pledged to do all he can to support the trade in the corridors of power at Westminster.

Simon Kirby, Conservative MP for Brighton Kemptown, used to run C-side pubco along with entrepreneur Martin Webb, but sold it for an estimated £15m in 2001.

Speaking exclusively to the Morning Advertiser, Kirby said: "I will do all I can to help pubs — they are often very important parts of the community and they need our support."

He said a top priority for the new Government should be to look at levels of duty and how to encourage responsible drinking.

The new MP also expressed concern about "the problems faced by tied pubs" and the "difficulty a tie can place on making a profit."

Meanwhile, just under one in four newly-elected MPs have put their names to a charter to help pubs.

A total of 650 Parliamentary candidates signed in support of the Campaign for Real Ale's (CAMRA) Beer Drinkers and Pub-Goers' Charter — 148 were elected last week, including Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg.

CAMRA's charter calls for MPs to back "radical reform" of the beer tie.

Prominent pub trade MPs regained their seats last week.

These include Gerry Sutcliffe, licensing minister in the previous Government and MP for Bradford South, and ex-pubs minister John Healey (Wentworth). Alistair Darling regained his Edinburgh South West seat.

Business, Innovation & Skills Committee chairman Peter Luff (Conservative, Mid Worcestershire) and All-Party Parliamentary Save the Pub Group chairman Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) also remain in power.