Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Pubs Code: Guest Beers

12 November 2024 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Julie Minns Lab Carlisle

Culture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Julie Minns raised concerns about pubs code: guest beers in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Concerns raised about historical government intervention in pubs and breweries during World War I due to alcohol's impact on munitions production.
  • Independent brewers today struggle to get their beers sold in local pubs.
  • The Government plans to consult on guest beers to ensure small brewers can retain market access.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Julie Minns Lab Carlisle

In 1916, the Government nationalised pubs and breweries in Carlisle due to concerns over alcohol's impact on munitions production at HM Factory Gretna. Drunkenness led to a fourfold increase in alcohol-related offences and lower productivity, prompting closure of many pubs and state control until 1973. Today, independent brewers face challenges getting their beers sold in local pubs.

Other contributors (1)
  • Nusrat Ghani

    Congratulates the hon. Member for Inverclyde and Renfrewshire West (Martin McCluskey) on his recent wedding.

Government Response

Justin Madders

Extends congratulations to Julie Minns and acknowledges the debate's importance. While no plans exist for pub nationalisation, the Minister highlights positive measures in the Budget supporting breweries and small businesses, including £2.2 billion of support over five years and reduced alcohol duty on draft products by up to £100 million annually. The Government will consult on guest beers to ensure small brewers can retain market access and maximise drinkers’ choices. A statutory review of the pubs code is due next year, but Scotland's new provision may influence future policies. The minister expresses willingness to work with Julie Minns on these issues.

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