Pubs Code comes into force

The Pubs Code has come into force today (21 July 2016), giving tenants more rights and greater protection when dealing with large pub companies that own tied pubs.

Tied tenants are obliged to buy beer and other drinks from their landlords. All businesses owning 500 or more tied pubs in England and Wales are now covered by the new code.

This gives around 12,000 tenants new rights and protections such as increased transparency about the tied deals available, a fair rent assessment and the right to move to a free-of-tie tenancy in certain circumstances.

The first ever Pubs Code Adjudicator, Paul Newby, oversees the operation of the code and will arbitrate disputes and investigate breaches of the code. Tenants can visit the website of the Pubs Code Adjudicator to make a referral or to get free advice.

Business Minister Margot James said:

"The Pubs Code will improve relationships across the industry and help tied tenants get a fairer deal. I want to take this opportunity to urge all tenants and pub companies to work with the Pubs Code Adjudicator, as well as one another, to do what’s best for Britain’s pubs.

"Paul Newby is the right person to oversee the code. He knows the challenges pubs are facing and is committed to providing a fair and robust service.

"I'd also like to pay tribute to the hard work Anna Soubry and the team put in to make sure we have a code that protects tenants’ rights."

Pubs Code Adjudicator Paul Newby said:

"I am proud to be the first ever Pubs Code Adjudicator and will work tirelessly to uphold the code and its values from day one. I completely understand and appreciate that there are tied tenants out there struggling to make a living as a result of bad deals with their landlords.

"This goes right to the heart of why the code really matters – it is about giving more rights to tenants who need to provide for their families and keeping thriving pubs open for local communities to enjoy."

Ahead of the code coming into force, Paul Newby has produced clear guidance for all parties on how to adopt the code and what to do when disputes arise. He has met with a range of stakeholders including the Association of Licensed Multiple Retailers, British Institute of Innkeeping, Federation of Licensed Victuallers Association and the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).