In the Welsh Parliament this week, Brecon and Radnorshire MS James Evans questioned the Economy Minister on what support Welsh Government is giving to pubs.
More than 50 pubs a month are now closing across England and Wales, compared to 30 pubs a month a year ago.
Evans said that “pubs are the heartbeat of many communities in Brecon and Radnorshire, and they play an important social role for many people” and asked, “what is the Welsh Government doing to support our pubs through a difficult winter and beyond?”
Minister Vaughan Gething said he recognised the challenges that pubs face and committed to discussions “not just with the sector but with the UK Government to understand what we can do and what resources will be available to try to support pubs as businesses and important hubs within communities.”
James said:
“Statistics show that the average price of a pint of beer has gone up 9% compared to last year, and times are tough for pubs and the hospitality industry.
“We all know that pubs are important – not just for employing local people, but also for their role as social hubs and the strengthening the character of our communities.
“I’d like to see the Welsh Government cut business rates, as Wales has the highest rates in Great Britain – that would be an immediate boost for our great pubs.”
