(qlmbusinessnews.com . Sat 13th Dec, 2025) London, UK —
Downing Street Stands by Hospitality Sector Amid Nationwide Pub Ban on Labour MPs
Downing Street Defends Government Support for Pubs Amid Labour MP Ban Campaign
Downing Street has voiced its support for the British pub sector as backlash grows, with a substantial number of establishments joining a movement to prohibit Labour MPs from their venues due to grievances over tax policies.
Initiated a week ago, the campaign against Labour MPs has seen over 250 pubs, eateries, and hotels across the UK endorsing the ban, including Dorset's Old Thatch. Andy Lennox, the landlord of The Old Thatch, described the action as a desperate measure following failed attempts to advocate for lower taxes, which instead resulted in increased financial burdens for the hospitality industry.
Despite the protests, the Prime Minister's representative highlighted the government's commitment to the sector, pointing to a £4.3 billion relief package aimed at pubs, restaurants, and cafes. “The hospitality sector is an invaluable part of our economy,” the spokesperson remarked, emphasizing measures taken to reduce potential bill increases, maintain draft beer duty reductions, ease licensing for outdoor activities, and cap corporation tax.
UKHospitality, however, has challenged the government's portrayal of the financial support and its effectiveness. When questioned about the Prime Minister potentially facing bans from local pubs during the festive season, the spokesperson stated, “The PM is focused on his obligations during the run-up to Christmas,” refraining from commenting on specific businesses' policies.
Andy Lennox criticised the government for not meeting the industry's demands despite comprehensive lobbying efforts. He accused the government of overlooking the hospitality sector in favour of other industries, exacerbating the financial strain on pubs and restaurants.
The campaign gained momentum with James Fowler, another Dorset publican, being one of the first to display “No Labour MPs” signage at his establishment, The Larderhouse in Bournemouth. Tom Hayes, Labour MP for Bournemouth East, responded to the sentiment, expressing concern over the divisive atmosphere this creates, particularly during the holiday season.
Lennox acknowledged the potential fallout from the campaign but stressed the necessity of directing frustration towards the government's policies rather than individual MPs who have shown willingness to engage with the sector.
The controversy shines a light on the broader issue of the UK's high VAT rate for hospitality, compared to significantly lower rates in other European countries. Calls for a VAT reduction to stimulate growth and profitability have been echoed by many, alongside criticisms of recent changes to business rates that threaten to impose additional financial pressures on already struggling businesses.
In response, Downing Street announced plans to introduce more favourable tax rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors from April, promising the lowest rates in over three decades for small venues and aiming to provide long-term stability for the industry.
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