Member Article

Government to introduce new rights for publicans

Pub landlords have been promised a “fairer deal” as the Government proposes to introduce new rights for them under a statutory code, and the formation of an independent adjudicator with the power to resolve disputes.

The adjudicator will have powers to enforce the new code, arbitrate disputes, carry out investigations into alleged breaches and impose sanctions on pub owning companies if they fail to comply.

Revealed today, the plans also propose a rent review for tied tenants who have not had one for five years; powers for tenants to negotiate better rent deals with their pub companies, and the right to choose to be tied for gaming machines.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “Local pubs and their owners play a vital part in vibrant local communities right across the country, as well as making an important contribution to the economy.

“Far too many landlords feel their income is squeezed by big pub companies. So today we are taking action to make sure they get a fairer deal.

“The introduction of a statutory code will make sure that tied tenants get an accurate assessment of how better off they could be and the new independent adjudicator would make sure pubs companies are forced to act to redress the situation if they aren’t behaving responsibly.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .