Mitchells & Butlers has reiterated its calls for MPs to back a total ban on smoking in enclosed public places in England when they vote later this month.
In a trading update the pub company said voluntary restrictions remained its preferred way, but the political reality of the debate meant the choice was between the government’s “retrograde” food-based approach or a total ban.
M&B said: “We believe that the level playing field outcome of a full ban would be the much better of the two alternatives, rather than an unworkable compromise which has little prospect of providing a lasting solution.”
M&B is also opposed to any exemption for members’ clubs, which it believes would give them an unfair business advantage.
In the 16 weeks to 21 January like-for-like sales were 4% up, after strong trading in the weeks before and after Christmas and the company’s modest extension of opening hours under the new licensing regime.
Pubs and pub-restaurants in residential areas, which account for 70% of the group’s business, outperformed the high street with like-for-like sales growth of 4.7% and 2.8%, respectively.
Food sales beat drinks sales at the company, up 5% compared with a 2% increase for wet.
The £100m share buyback programme announced last November is underway with £18m of shares repurchased to date.
By Chris Druce
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