The new Labour Government has provided some “reassurance” for the sector in the wake of the general election but must clarify how it intends to deliver its pledge to reform business rates and support hospitality firms.
During his first speech as Prime Minister on 5 July, party leader Keir Starmer vowed to restore trust in politics and build a "Government of service", adding Labour’s work started immediately.
In its manifesto released on Thursday 13 June, Labour committed to reforming business rates in a bid to support high street firms and replace the current system, but some operators feel this has been promised with no “clear outline”.
No clear outline
Owner of the Onslow Arms in Loxwood, West Sussex, Rob Barr, told the Morning Advertiser (MA): “The new Labour Government has promised change by kick starting the economy and reconnecting Britain with rebuilding global relationships over the next five years. All of which are relevant to our trade.
“The reassurance of seeing some of the newly appointed cabinet ministers, such as Rachel Reeves as chancellor who does have a banking background, hopefully means we won’t see a repeat of the mini budget which sent markets into a spiral.
“But the most interesting point is how this Government has pledged the replacement of the business rates system. With no clear outline of how this will be done, will we see more support for us? Or just a reworded, more complex way of taxing hospitality?”
The manifesto also pledged to cut down on antisocial behaviour with more neighbourhood police and implement a windfall tax on oil and gas giants as well as reduce waste by moving to a circular economy.
Economic contribution
In April, the party laid out its five-point plan to “revamp” empty and boarded up pubs, including stamping out late payments as well as business rates reformation.
Addressing attendees at the British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) Pint Tech conference in London earlier this year, MP for Newcastle Chi Onwurah also pledged a Labour Government would champion the hospitality sector.
Prior to the general election, a snap poll by the MA revealed 31% of the 152 respondents had planned to vote for Labour, with the Conservatives closely behind at 25%, while data from the Night-Time Industries Association showed many felt the party was best placed to support the sector.
Barr added: “I’m sure I’m one of many to hope the Government does act, does listen to the industry and does recognise how much of a contribution hospitality makes to not only British culture but the economy as a whole.”
