After dry January I had the chance to reflect on the importance of our pubs and beer! This constituency is home to 111 pubs which directly employ 1,429 people. From breweries to pubs to beer drinkers, the Westminster Hall debate was an opportunity for MPs from all sides of the House to come together to call for the government to reduce the duty on pubs and beer.
Every MP in attendance spoke of the significance of their local pubs both as cultural and community-based assets and as vibrant hubs within the centres of our towns and villages. They act as a draw for tourists and a refuge for weary workers after a long day’s work. I took the opportunity to highlight a few of our own local pubs as well as make the case for the important role pubs play economically, societally, culturally and in boosting the concept of localisation.
You can watch my (2 minute) speech here.
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You can watch my question to the Treasury team here
Further to this, during the recess period, I had the pleasure of being invited to see both Salcombe Brewery and New Lion Brewery. Both of which are hugely impressive and well worth the visit.
The Salcombe Brewery situated just off the Kingsbridge Showground gave me a tour of their facility and a tasting session of their delicious beers. From the team that makes the beer to those that market it, their passion and love of their trade is admirable. They have a very bright future ahead.
New Lion Brewery is one of the first community partnership owned breweries in the country. Their site outside of Totnes will soon be revamped and become home to a brewery, bakery, and bar. Their reliance on local produce for their beers makes them a truly local business!