MP report calls for minimum pricing

The government should consider minimum pricing as a "longer term solution" to tackle the price differential between the on-trade and off-trade, a panel of MPs has recommended.

The measure is one of a host included in a hard-hitting report, being launched today in London, based on a two-and-half year inquiry by the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group into the future of community pubs.

A freeze on beer duty, the abolition of machine gaming duty for at least the first machine in a pub, a reduction in red tape, and a review of the rate relief system, has also been called for by the 10-strong panel.

A copy of the 44-page study, which notes that 36 pubs a week are now closing, has been sent to all MPs - and government ministers have been asked to respond to the recommendations.

The report also urges Sky to lower its prices for community pubs, which have low profits but a high rateable value.

It also said the sector was "crying out" for a vocal and persistent champion across government.

Other recommendations include: making it simpler for pubs to diversify; licensing to be made simpler and cheaper; and a review of the impact of penalties and criminal sanctions on community pubs' livelihood.

Licensing Minister Gerry Sutcliffe gave evidence at the ninth and final session of the review, which took place between May 2006 and July 2008.

To view a full copy of the report, click on the link on the right.