Video cast: Licensing Minister answers your questions
This video is ten minutes long as we ask the minister all your questions.
Licensing Minister Gerry Sutcliffe says the beer tie is an issue that "needs to be addressed" in a wide-ranging interview with the Morning Advertiser.
He also expressed doubt about whether the smoking ban will be extended to pub doorways — and said the ban has had a "pretty neutral effect" on pubs because it has attracted new non-smoking customers.
The MA put questions to Sutcliffe that had been sent in by readers and many were keen to gauge his views on the tie.
"I think it's something that has to be resolved, it won't go away," said the minister.
"I do believe there is an issue there that needs to be resolved. I'm not saying that all tie is wrong because in certain models it works, but occasionally there's clearly an issue out there."
Watch the video for Sutcliffe's views on other key areas including business rates, Sky fees and the new Minister for Pubs.
