A group of 50 Labour MPs have written to the government urging them to do more for the hospitality sector in the forthcoming Budget.
A letter, organised by Emma Lewell MP, calls for:
- Lower business rates: offer larger discounts for hospitality sites in England worth under £500,000, and scrap the proposed surcharge for larger venues.
- A cut in VAT on hospitality of approximately 5%: stimulating demand, encouraging investment, and helping venues remain open.
- Reducing National Insurance contributions: including extending exemptions for young people and those returning to work, to protect vital entry-level jobs and pathways back into employment.
The letter points out that hospitality contributes £140 billion to the economy, employs 3.5m people, and generates £54bn in tax revenues for the Treasury every year.
“The sector’s value extends far beyond economics,” say the MPs. “Hospitality is one of the UK’s most flexible and inclusive employers; it is also one of the UK’s largest employers of young people and one of the country’s most powerful drivers of social mobility, with the sector providing a proven route into management and long-term careers.”
• Paul Sullivan, previously with the Wadworth and Hopback breweries, has been named chief executive of Norfolk brewer Woodforde’s.
He said: “I look forward to working with the team to build on the company’s legacy, drive future growth, and continue to deliver great beer that reflects both tradition and innovation.”
He replaces Joe Parks, who introduced Woodforde’s New World Brewing craft beer range.
• A free-of-tie lease is being offered to parties interested in taking on The Manners Arms, on the Belvoir Castle estate in Leicestershire.
“This 1880s hunting lodge has been refurbished, preserving its historic charm, while introducing a modern bar, dining room, and ten en-suite bedrooms,” said the Duchess of Rutland. The sale is being handled by Christie & Co.
