Mulholland: game is up for pubcos

The game is up for "unscrupulous pubcos", Save the Pub Group chair Greg Mulholland has warned.

The pro-pub Lib Dem MP has worked tirelessly for a fairer deal for tied tenants and he believes the proposals from the pubs minister represents a significant step forward.

"At last we are getting an independent review of pub ownership and at last we can see action to loosen the vice like grip that the huge pub owning companies have over our locals and the tenants who run them," he said.

"It is also great that tenants will have the option of a guest beer free of tie as well as fairness and transparency.

He added: "So the game is up for unscrupulous pubcos who have exploited their power

and treated our pubs as no little more than squares on a monopoly board.

"This is a big step towards giving the pub back to the British people."

Mulholland also praised the wider proposals to help community pubs, including cash to help community ownership of pubs, changes to planning law and live music reform.

"At last we have action to support and save the Great British pub. I am delighted the Government has responded with this package and I am very pleased that they have listened to the Save the Pub Group.

"The Save the Pub Group have been lobbying vigorously for the last year and this package includes key changes that we have been calling for.

"The package is great news for pubs, publicans & pub goers and is a big step forward in recognising the importance of the pub."