Last week, Richard caught up with Martin Beck and Stephen Livens at the British Beer & Pub Association parliamentary drop-in where they discussed their new report on the vital role pubs play as social infrastructure in our communities.
Richard Fuller MP said:
Pubs are so much more than just a place to grab a drink. They are essential "third spaces" - hubs that have brought people together for centuries. While targeted public health measures can help to tackle harmful drinking practices, policy shouldn't penalise moderate, socially embedded consumption.
If we want to strengthen our communities and combat loneliness, we have to look at the wellbeing benefits our local pubs provide.
We also spoke about how crucial the hospitality sector is for getting young people into work. Serving behind a bar was actually one of my very first jobs! It’s where I learned how to manage responsibility and communicate with customers from all walks of life.
To ensure these vital community spaces - and key employers for young people - can survive, the industry needs a fairer approach to regulation and tax.
