Differences must be put aside as the pubs code clock is ticking

From the outside, it would seem like a black hole of limited activity, with those attempting to engage stuck in a process akin to wading through treacle.

There are many in the industry finding the situation challenging but are hopeful of seeing a little more clarity and action.

The open letter from the PCA makes the claim it is having to devote resources, time and energy to countering the constant attacks – time that could be better spent. Some have condemned the letter as a futile PR stunt, which has simply opened the door for fresh attacks.

However, I do find the claims, in the responding open letter from one campaign group, that the PCA initiated the hostility, simply incredible. From day one, this organisation and its fellow campaigners have railed against Newby’s appointment, called for his removal and refused to engage.

That clamour aside, though, what I find more worrying is when operators report problems, for example the comments from Lee Worsley that the PCA failed to respond to his situation. This is of greater concern.

Rather than attempt to persuade the unpersuadable, I would urge Newby and his team to step up a gear. We need to give the PCA time to get to grips with what is a new code and new system – that clock is ticking, and that ticking is getting louder.

Sadly, the constant bellowing for his removal is simply serving to mask that ticking clock and cloud the issue further.

I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again, we need a calm, considered assessment of the situation – let’s take some of the hysteria out of the equation for everyone’s sake. And for Newby and co, perhaps a little advice from Elvis, “a little less conversation, a little more action please”.