Press Release 19 March 2010

DAVID HAMILTON MP SET TO TOAST VICTORY IN CAMPAIGN TO SUPPORT LOCAL PUBS

Midlothian MP David Hamilton has welcomed the announcement of the Governments 12 point plan to support pubs and clubs across the UK.

The Government has announced a new plan backed with £4m of support to ensure that the decline of the Great British pub is brought to a halt. The measures are aimed at pubs which form an integral part of the local community, helping them to ensure that they remain viable businesses.

The package includes a new support service, measures to allow communities to take over pubs, a relaxing of music licenses and a review of duties on gaming machines.

David Hamilton MP said:

"This is good news for the pubs and clubs across Midlothian that has been struggling in these economic conditions and the changing social attitudes towards pubs. Giving pubs the advice, support and freedom they need to expand and use new revenues streams is very welcome.

"However I accept that this is only the start. The Government has announced a review of duties on fruit and quiz machines; I am disappointed they have not said the same for beer duty. I have been campaigning in Parliament for the law to change to allow lower rates of duty for beer sold in pubs when compared to supermarkets. In my onion this is the one change that would really help our pubs thrive and I will continue to campaign for it in Parliament.

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