'Completely unacceptable': over half of November lockdown grants still yet to be paid out

Research from the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) polled its members and also revealed three quarters (74%) of wet-led pubs are still awaiting their Christmas grant.

Furthermore, 46% of respondents said they were yet to receive the Local Restrictions Support Grants that were available for licensees amid the tier measures.

The trade body called upon the Prime Minister to intervene to ensure the funding is delivered immediately to pubs and highlighted how the delay in the payments so far could mean many pubs have already been lost for good.

Scandalous waiting

It is also urging the Government and councils to work closer together in a bid to help any future grants are delivered to the trade quickly.

BBPA chief executive Emma McClarkin said: “Months have passed yet still thousands of pubs are waiting on the grants they have been promised.

“It is unbelievable so many pubs are still waiting on their Christmas grants and grants for the second lockdown – considering we are now in a third lockdown, it is scandalous.

“Publicans across the country are desperately checking their bank accounts every minute of every day to see if they have got their payment.”

Completely unacceptable

She emphasised the precarious position the trade is currently in and the impact the funding will make to businesses.

McClarkin added: “Our sector is hanging by a thread so for many pubs, getting these grants is the difference between surviving or closing for good.

“The Prime Minister personally promised some of these grants for wet-led pubs. We implore him to now intervene and ensure his promise is delivered.

“It is completely unacceptable it has even got to this stage where we are pleading with Government to deliver the support we have been promised by them

“These grants are a vital lifeline but only when delivered. Government and local authorities must work closer together to ensure future grants are delivered to pubs quickly.”