Tied pubs’ future

Sir, Pub-goers have the opportunity to contribute to a consultation which could help to protect the pub industry for years to come.

The consultation, which has been brought forward by Neil Bibby MSP, will investigate whether a Pubs Code and Adjudicator is needed in Scotland to govern the relationship between tied pub tenants and the large pub companies (pubcos).

It will also consider whether a Market Rent Only (MRO) option should be introduced, which would allow licensees to buy their beer on the open market rather than having to buy directly from the pubco and the prices they set.

The consultation follows sweeping reforms across England and Wales last year which saw the introduction of a Pubs Code, Adjudicator and a Market Rent Only option after 10 years of campaigning by CAMRA and other industry bodies.

We would like to encourage anyone who values their local pub to take part in this consultation, which could have a huge impact on the future of the industry.

For far too long, large pub companies have been taking more than is fair or sustainable from pub profits by forcing licensees to buy their beer from them rather than on the open market. Furthermore, there is no set code of practice in place or independent arbitrator available if a licensee has an issue with that pub company.

We think this is not only unfair, but also has a damaging impact on consumers who are then faced with a higher bill at the bar and less choice at the handpump. We’re hoping that all beer-lovers will use this opportunity to show the government that licensees in Scotland should not be left behind - they deserve the same level of support as those in England and Wales.

The consultation period for the Proposed Tied Pubs (Code and Adjudicator) (Scotland) Bill closes on July 31.

The Bills committee then has 12 weeks to determine whether or not it should progress any further. To get involved, visit parliament.scot/gettinginvolved and look for ‘current consultations’.

Sarah Bellis, CAMRA Director for Scotland and NI