Bob Neill: We want to cut red tape to help entrepreneurial licensees

Times are tough for pubs - not only because of the recession, but also in the traditionally quieter months after Christmas. But regardless of the government of the day, the pubs industry has always been full of creativity and initiative. It wasn't long ago that the gastro-pub emerged as a way of attracting new business and many communities are stepping in to bring their local back from the brink and save it from closure.

Of course government has a role to play too. Unlike the previous administration, supporting community pubs is not an issue that this coalition Government will consider as an add-on or an afterthought, or to be used in a so-called popularity contest. The wellbeing of the industry is something that I am committed to and have put firmly on this administration's agenda.

It is also right that as a Government we tackle the negative effects of alcohol abuse and binge drinking. But we can address this without punishing well-run, responsible pubs - many of which are a lifeline to local communities.

We want to make sure landlords and communities have everything they need to help their local pubs thrive. Wherever possible we are committed to removing restrictive red tape and pointless bureaucracy to allow pubs to set up in more entrepreneurial and inventive ways.

Indeed, since the coalition came into power we have taken swift action to support the industry and listen to their concerns. I have just announced that we are reviewing the rules on restrictive covenants, a clause that can be used to prevent a building re-opening again as a pub. These rules have often restricted competition and seen pubs disappear from our towns and villages. We are also introducing new rights through the Localism Bill, so that residents will be able to save struggling pubs by taking them over rather than seeing them empty and derelict. Communities seeking to do this can get the expert advice they need through the Government-funded Asset Transfer Unit.

There will be a ban on the sale of alcohol below cost price, helping protect local pubs from unfair 'loss leading' by some supermarkets. We are also reforming licensing rules to make it easier to play live music in local pubs. And this Government has already scrapped the 10 per cent rise in cider duties, the so-called 'cider tax'.

In October we announced the doubling of small business rate relief for a year and I urge pubs to take advantage of this. Eligible businesses do not always claim the discounts they are entitled to. That's why we are cutting red tape for businesses re-applying for this relief in the future. This all adds up to a far better deal for pubs.

I will take the pragmatic approach and continue conversations with the industry about what more the Government can do to protect the local pub. We know it's common sense to listen to business and take away the burdens and red tape that hinder them. That's what I want to do in the coming months - listen to concerns, and help to keep this important industry alive.