'BBPA code no more than best practice'

The British Beer and Pub Association's new Framework Code of Practice on the Granting of Tenancies and Leases is nothing more than best practice, according to the Guild of Master Victuallers (GMV).

The GMV signed up as a member of the Independent Pub Confederation (IPC), following the breakdown of the landmark mediation process rather than the BBPA new's code.

The BBPA code, agreed with the BII and the Federation of Licensed Victuallers Associations, calls for the removal of upwards only rent clauses, greater transparency across the board and a procedure to deal with complaints (Pubcos set out 'fundamental reform' plans​).

"There was disappointment when the recent mediation talks broke up without having reached an agreement," said GMV executive officer John Madden. 

"Whilst not under-estimating the progress made, it was the view of The Guild that what was eventually proposed by the British Beer And Pub Association was nothing more than`best practice` and should already be in place in the industry."

The GMV attended the mediation with three main goals — the removal of the beer tie, removal of the AWP tie and for licensees to be allowed to obtain their own buildings insurance.

Bill Sharp, The Guild`s representative at the mediation process, said: "By joining with other organizations to form the Independent Pub Confederation we will be able to show a united front to Lord Mandelson, the Government Minister, and to the Officer of Fair Trading. 

"The creation of a strong and unified voice is an extremely positive step forward which will enable the concerns of ordinary licensees to be heard. The creation of the IPC gives us one single, unified voice which cannot be ignored."

The BBPA, however, claims that its new code provides a "lasting settlement" for the trade and makes any further Competition Authority investigation "unnecessary".