Election candidates back beer tie reform
Over 650 election hopefuls have backed calls for reform of the beer tie — the equivalent of one for each constituency in the UK.
The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) launched its charter in February, which calls for MPs to back "radical reform" of the beer tie and to speak up for community pubs, local brewers and consumers (CAMRA urges MPs to back 'radical reform' of beer tie).
The most high profile signature to the charter, which also calls for fairer tax on beer, is Lib Dem Leader Nick Clegg.
During the next parliament CAMRA will be calling on each of the elected candidates to back up their commitment to "reform the beer tie to deliver a fair deal for consumers" with action on issues such as a legally binding code of conduct, a guest beer right and a free of tie option for tied tenants.
"Such positive support for the core aims of CAMRA's Beer Drinkers and Pub Goers Charter shows that to secure a sustainable future for British pubs and prevent countless local communities from losing their social hub, reform of the 'beer tie' is urgently required," said CAMRA chief executive Mike Benner.
"The large pub companies won't be able to escape the growing political pressure for reform.
"The widespread level of support from every political party for community pubs, local brewers and consumers is a milestone in CAMRA's history, and will form the foundation for effective campaigning by CAMRA's 110,000 members in the next Parliament."
