Dixon: set up BII arm for tenants

The BII should set up a separate arm to act as a national representative body for tenants, one senior trade consultant has argued.

Speaking at the Tenanted Pub Company Summit, Phil Dixon said the BII should step into the vacuum that has existed since the collapse of the National Licensed Victuallers Association following the Beer Orders.

"I think the BII, whether we like it or not, are in the position where maybe we have to accept some responsibility.

"We've already got nearly 10,000 licensee members. There's no reason why we couldn't, as we've done with BIIBAS, set up a separate licensees' and tenants' forum.

"We could ask for representatives from all the companies to be elected and sent there to formulate policy and lobby.

"I think it is something we should discuss with our corporate members and do more to represent tenants and lessees in that area and therefore fill that gap."

Dixon argued that Fair Pint was a "very competent pressure group", but not a credible licensees' organisation because of its position on the tie.

He said the group would not be content until the tie was destroyed, which would destroy regional brewers.

"I don't think it's a tenable position. Criticising the major pubcos is fairly valid, but to destroy our integrity and heritage is wrong."

He added: "That leaves the GMB. I'm an ex-branch chairman of the GMB and I think there is a role for the GMB in society.

"But there's no role whatsoever for the GMB representing self-employed businessmen running pubs. It is a marriage that is never going to work."

BII chief Neil Robertson said he would be happy to take a proposal to the BII Council. "I think our tenant members are encouraging us to take a clear view on these issues. I hope we'll do that."

He added that the BII "will not be bullied by anybody".