Dave Mountford steps down from GMB and statutory code consultation

Mountford, who was the GMB representative for tied pubs, told the the Publican’s Morning Advertiser: “I have taken it [campaigning for the statutory code] as far as I can and it is entering a political arena.

“I am leaving the consultation process at a point where it is entering more of a political debate and the political adviser at the GMB is much more suited to take that forward than myself.

"We have had a successful and busy year at the pub and I really want to concentrate on running the pub with my wife who has kept it going while I have been distracted with many other things. The timing is best for everyone.”

The news was revealed in a statement for the GMB union today when Mountford said: “I represented GMB nationally in the consultation process on the draft code.

“For personal reasons I am standing down from that role. George Scott and Steve Kemp will represent GMB as matters proceeds.”

Mountford, a former Punch licensee had been in dispute with the pubco over his rent review at the Rising Sun, Middleton, Derbyshire. But in May 2012  he came to a “private” agreement over his rent review and the details were not disclosed.

He took on the free-of-tie lease of the Boat Inn at Cromford, Derbyshire, in March 2012 and in the same month was rejected as vice-chair of the Pubs Independent Rent review Service after putting himself forward for the role.