MP calls for statutory code of practice for pubcos

Brian Binley MP for Northampton South and Vice Chairman of the Business, Innovation and Skills Select Committee has played an instrumental role in the publication of the Committee’s report into pub companies which has recommended that the Government consults to put the code of practice on a statutory footing.

The report concluded that pubcos had made a “half hearted attempt at reform” and that the BBPA had been “impotent” in its timetable for reform, concluding that pubcos had failed to meet the test set down by the previous committee’s report in 2010 which had warned the industry that it was their last chance of self regulatory reform.

Brian said: “It is a decision which the committee has taken with a heavy heart- in principle additional regulation is a burden on industry and should only be considered as a last resort, but each Committee report prior to this has challenged the industry to create a programme for meaningful reform and that has simply not happened.”

“It is of vital importance that the Government holds its promise of consulting to put the code of practice on a statutory footing without delay or a lengthy process and I was encouraged by the Secretary of State’s positive response to that question when I questioned him during the evidence sessions.”

“I have had a huge number of e-mails and letters from publicans up and down the Country providing me with examples of where pubcos have intentionally misled tenants and it is important that we act now to save more pubs from going to the wall.”

“Pubs and clubs in Britain are at the very heart of our communities which provides a form of social interaction which is almost unique to anywhere else in the world and we are losing them at an alarming rate with 25 pubs a week closing.”

Government must protect Britain’s interest in Europe

Brian Binley MP for Northampton South has again criticised the creation of the Eurozone, speaking in a debate in the House of Commons yesterday on the European Union’s Fiscal Union.

Brian said: “There is no doubt that the eurozone is contemplating its very existence so the debate is not only timely but also vital. The whole thing could blow up in our faces in the next four or five weeks, and I want to be reassured by the Minister that contingency plans are in place.”

It is estimated that Britain’s contribution to the bailouts of Ireland, Portugal and Greece has topped £12 billion pounds, the equivalent of £550 for every man, women and child in Northampton.

Brian continued: “The truth of the matter is that the Euro is a failed currency and had within its creation the very traits for its destruction; those are coming into view at a time when pressure is being applied.”

“The problem is serious and the Government needs to recognise the impact it is having on businesses and families within my constituency. We must help the eurozone come to a sensible conclusion, but that does not include being part of a fiscal union.”

“We must help to ensure that we renegotiate a relationship with Europe that is much more sensible than we have had for a very long time. If necessary we come out.”

“We will have a tough time, whatever occurs and we must use that time in the interests of Britain, not the eurozone, which has been the creator of its own downfall.”