Change Doesn’t Happen Behind Closed Doors — Why MPs Should Always Be Welcome in Our Pubs

Lately, I’ve been thinking about the growing number of pubs choosing to ban Labour MPs from their premises. I understand the anger — many of us feel battered from pillar to post — but I’m not convinced it’s the right approach. Our MPs are elected to represent us, to listen to the challenges we face and to take those concerns back to Parliament. If we shut the door on conversation, we also shut the door on the chance of change.

I recently welcomed Michelle Welsh MP to our brewery, and we had an open and honest conversation about the massive hike in business rate valuations. She was just as furious about it as I was — and that mattered. Because when MPs genuinely understand what’s happening on the ground, they’re far more likely to fight our corner. I have no doubt that she’ll take those views back into the many debates currently taking place in the Houses of Parliament.

I can’t help feeling that something has gone wrong with business rates. The lowering of the multiplier was clearly intended to help Retail, Hospitality and Leisure businesses. The Chancellor even stated in her Budget speech that this would mean businesses paying the lowest level of business rates since 1991.

But the reality for pubs is very different. The Valuation Office Agency’s revaluation has pushed rateable values up so significantly that, for the vast majority of pubs, any benefit from the lower multiplier is effectively wiped out. Yes, there is transitional relief over the next three years — but the bottom line remains the same: most pubs will still end up paying more.

If this outcome was fully understood at the top, would that claim have been made so confidently? It’s a fair question, and one that’s causing real frustration across our industry.

For now, we’re in a place where change will only come through lobbying, pressure and constructive dialogue. And that can’t happen if we refuse to engage.

Pubs have always been places where conversations happen — sometimes difficult ones, often important ones. If you’re a publican feeling the same frustration, my advice is simple: invite your MP in. Pour a pint, have an honest conversation, and make sure our voices are heard where it really matters.