Sunak remains pubs’ favourite for PM´
The MA asked ‘which of the final two PM contenders do you think would be better for the pub sector?’
Of the 105 votes, 61% were in favour of Rishi Sunak and the remaining 39% opted for Liz Truss.
In a previous poll earlier in the Conservative party leadership race, Sunak was the candidate with the most votes (18% of the votes) however, most of those polled opted for ‘none’ of the options given.
Contenders' agendas
Both Sunak and Truss outlined how they would tackle inflation, economic security and levelling up in a televised debate recently (Monday 25 July).
Furthermore, trade body UKHospitality boss Kate Nicholls called for stability from the Government for the sector.
She tweeted: “We need clear, consistent, strategic plans to restore confidence, underpin investment and accelerate economic growth.
“Tackling the cost of doing business – key part of tackling cost of living – to and remove barriers to delivering it needs prioritising.”
System overhaul needed
In addition, commercial estate agents Colliers called for the next Tory leader to reform the business rates system.
It warned any implementation of phased downwards transition in the next revaluation will stifle recovery in the high street and hinder the Levelling Up agenda.
“Conservative runners hoping to lead the party must uphold the Conservative party manifesto and bring in proper business rates reform,” said John Webber, head of business rates at Colliers. “And, on the immediate front, must commit to ruling out downwards transition following the next revaluation in 2023, if they are serious about saving the high street.
“While many of the candidates are throwing around tax cuts like confetti, all we are asking is they all commit to a revaluation and Levelling Up agenda that will provide the instant tax cuts they have all already committed to.”
