Pubs Code Adjudicator Visits Burton and Uttoxeter Pubs with Local MP
The Pubs Code Adjudicator (PCA), Fiona Dickie, recently joined Burton and Uttoxeter MP, Jacob Collier for a series of visits to local pubs to meet directly with pub operators and better understand the challenges facing the sector.
Fiona was also accompanied by representatives from the Society of Independent Brewers and Associates (SIBA), Andy Slee and Ian Ward.
The group spent time at The Blacksmiths in Branston, The Jinnie in Rolleston, and The Smithfield Hotel in Uttoxeter, speaking with tenants about the realities of running licensed premises in today’s climate.
The meetings provided insight into the pressures faced, as well as how the Government and pub companies can support landlords in managing and sustaining their businesses.
Speaking after the visits Fiona Dickie, Pubs Code Adjudicator, said:
“Spending time with pub tenants and operators across the Burton and Uttoxeter constituency and hearing directly from them is invaluable in understanding the issues facing the pub industry today.
Ongoing engagement with those working in pubs and tied pub tenants is an important way to build understanding of the challenges and opportunities across the sector
I would like to thank Jacob Collier MP and SIBA for joining the visit and engaging so constructively with local pub businesses.”
Jacob Collier MP said:
“It was incredibly useful to meet with local landlords and hear first-hand about both the opportunities and the challenges they face.
Pubs are at the heart of our communities, and it’s vital that we ensure they have the support they need to thrive.”
As a member of the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group, and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Pubs, Jacob emphasised his strong connection to the sector and ongoing advocacy on its behalf.
“I will always speak up for the industry,” Jacob added. “I will continue my work in Parliament and alongside local pub companies and organisations like the British Beer and Pub Association to champion pubs and support this vital sector.”
Blacksmiths landlords Tom and Sean said: “We’ve recently undergone a large renovation and invested a lot into the pub, and whilst it’s been well received by the local community, we still face challenges as many others do in the industry.
It was valuable to have direct engagement from our MP and get the chance to talk openly about life as landlords.”