Full-pint measure is nota worry for consumers

by Ewan Turney

MPs and the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) are barking up the wrong tree in campaigning for a full-pint measure, according to a survey of pub-goers' concerns by online London pub guide Fancyapint.

Currently, 237 MPs have signed up to Dennis Turner's early-day motion, supported by Camra, campaigning for a pint to be redefined as 100% liquid, but pub-goers have said their main concerns are restricted opening hours and tobacco smoke.

Just 3% of pub-goers said their number-one concern was having too big a head on their pint. "It suggests that the 237 MPs who have signed the Commons motion demanding publicans serve 100% liquid are concentrating on the wrong issue," said Fancyapint director Gordon Butler.

"The trade has already said it would be unworkable and will drive up the cost of a pint. Now it seems drinkers themselves don't even see it as an issue."

The study revealed that 24% were most concerned about opening hours with fears over smoke just behind on 22% with women and the over 50s listing it as their number-one issue. Nearly 18% felt that prices were too high.

"This shows that when you listen to pub-goers themselves, what they want is opening hours to suit them, a decent atmosphere and fair prices," Butler added.

"The Government has tackled opening hours with new legislation and the smoking debate is well advanced. It's certainly not the time to look at increasing prices nor to demand barstaff spend their time measuring beer to the millilitre."