Punch looks into alleged pub service refusal
Punch Taverns has launched an investigation after allegations that a group of customers were refused service at a London pub because of their sexuality.
The Labour Party's Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transsexual Society (LGBT) were trying to get served in the Greencoat Boy in Westminster when a row broke out.
The matter was referred to the Metropolitan Police as a possible breach of equality laws.
"Punch Taverns seeks to provide open and welcoming venues to everyone," said a statement from Punch.
"We are shocked and saddened that the Labour LGBT did not experience this at the Greencoat Boy last night and apologise unreservedly.
"Across our estate, diversity and inclusion are a core part of our ethics and are clearly referenced in our recruitment process, our equal opportunities policy and training. We would like to stress that this is an isolated incident; we have a good track record on equal opportunities and we do not tolerate homophobia in our pubs, whether from guests to other guests, or involving our employees.
"We are currently conducting a full investigation of the incident and the deputy general manager will not be on site until the investigation is concluded. We are co-operating fully with the police and plan to meet with the LGBT Labour group early next week to discuss how we can work together to further improve our policies and procedures.
"In addition, we have contacted all of our general managers and pub teams to remind them of our equal opportunity policy and will seek to work with external partners to further enhance our training to ensure that inclusion remains at the heart of it."
