Speaking to guests, Lucy Powell acknowledged that the sector was going through difficulties: “I know it’s been a really challenging time, not just this year but for many years. And I’m sure that many of you will want to talk to me about what more the Government could be doing and whether we’re doing enough for you.”
She said her constituency was Manchester and she probably has the most pubs and bars of any MP: “I hear all the time, first hand from people, what the challenges are and we do hear that and we have had to make some really difficult decisions, especially in the budget last year to raise the money we needed to raise, to help get people back into work, to help boost people’s income.
“And I know that for many small businesses and those in the hospitality sector, you feel quite raw about having to pay some of those additional costs.
Here to support
Powell added: “But what I’m here to say is that we are here to support the hospitality sector – we are looking at all of the ways in which we can do that, we’ve brought in the different duty rates, and we’re looking at business rates reform, obviously you know about that, but we’ve started that journey with some of the changes to business rates that are coming in next year.
“And we’ll continue to look at a range of issues, especially around the costs that you face and keeping those costs low.
Stick with us
“The most important thing I think, is to get more money back into people’s pockets so that they can afford to be able to go to the pub and have a meal, have a drink and help to boost all our town centres, high streets and city centres. We are focused on that and I hope that you can stick with us.
“I know that’s it’s not always easy, but I just wanted you to know that I’m here, that [the brewing and pub sector] matters to the government – this sector employs a huge number of people, not only that but it employs people who are at the start of their career, it’s the first job that most people have, and by god you train them well.”
