Vince Cable

Pubs are being badly hit by rising costs, mainly fuel costs, and those that are tied to the pub chains (pubcos) have the additional problem that they are not allowed to shop around for cheap supplies.

Most local pubs are in this position. John Veitch of the Duke's Head, Hampton has asked Vincent Cable MP to back a growing campaign in Parliament to provide stronger protection for tied pubs under the industry's code of conduct.

Vincent Cable is supporting the campaign and says that "the system of tied pubs goes completely against the idea of competitive markets. It is especially damaging at a time like this when pubs are under pressure because of a slow down in the economy combined with rising costs. I support the Fair Pint Campaign which is pushing for legislation for leased pubs to be released from their tie."