Trade union Unite has called for reform of the beer tie, a review of smoking regulations and a fair deal for pub managers in its pub trade manifesto.
Unite has teamed up with Inez Ward's Justice for Licensees campaign to produce a manifesto for change across the whole trade — including the managed sector, where it calls for better working conditions for pub managers.
The manifesto also calls for:
• Independent review of the beer tax
• The introduction of a commercial rents register to aid with comparables
• Creation of an independent resolution service
• Abolition of the AWP tie
Unite also represents pub managers, under the Licensee's Unite banner, and it called for a maximum 48 hour working week, minimum 25 days leave and eight statutory days, full legal support on employment issues and a review on how staff can be better protected against violence.
It also calls for a ban on selling alcohol below cost in the off-trade. "We believe that a well run pub is essential to provide a focus for responsible drinking in communities and is an invaluable centre for social activity," said Ward.
"It is also clear that unless urgent action is taken to ensure that all licensees can make a decent living working under reasonable terms and conditions, pubs will continue to close and we will lose them from our communities forever."
The manifesto will first be distributed at the Great British Beer Festival today.
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