CAMRA says the government missed an opportunity to support beer drinkers and pubs as it outlined plans for the next 12 months in the King’s Speech.

CAMRA national chairman Nik Antona (above) said: “It is disappointing that the government’s agenda for the coming parliamentary session makes no reference to supporting pubs, brewers, or the wider hospitality industry.

“Earlier this year, in light of the case of the Crooked House in Himley, CAMRA published data showing that potentially unlawful pub demolitions and conversions continue to take place. 

“The King’s Speech was an opportunity for the government to make a firm commitment to pub protection and announce legislation to bolster the planning enforcement tools available to local authorities to deter unscrupulous developers from flouting planning rules. 

“Unfortunately, we are still uncertain about whether the government will act, and it has already ruled out making legislative changes to the Pubs Code, to better balance the relationship between pub companies and their tenants, and to improve consumer choice in the tied pub estate. 

“Looking ahead to the Autumn Statement, we hope that the chancellor will take urgent action on energy supply and pricing, business rates relief and cutting red tape preventing draught takeaway sales from taking place.”

CAMRA is asking everyone to email their MP using its easy-to-use e-lobbying tool at https://camra.e-activist.com/page/137207/action/1