Pub managers’ long hours put health at risk, warns union manifesto

Pub managers are being forced to risk their health by working longer hours than any other group of employees in the UK, trade union Unite has warned.

In its Manifesto for the Pub Industry, Unite has called for a maximum working week for pub managers of 48-hours, a minimum of 25 days holiday a year and greater protection for staff with a focus on violence at work.

“Working 60-70 hours a week is just not acceptable and the health of our members is suffering,” said Jennie Formby, Unite national officer for the hospitality sector. “Our officials have reported a significant increase in cases of ill health retirement as pub chains cut costs forcing managers to operate with fewer staff,” she added.

Formby added that the focus on tied tenants is justified but that managers should not be forgotten.

“There has quite rightly been a strong focus in recent months on the massive problems facing tenants but we must not forget the many thousands of workers in the 9,000 plus managed pubs in the UK who need us today more than ever before,” she said.

The manifesto, launched last week, also calls for a substantial reform of the beer tie, a review of all rents, a review of the regulations on smoking shelters and an independent review of the beer tax.

Pub groups meet to discuss beer-tie probe >>

Unions and consumer groups welcome Government decision on tips >>

British beer duties are the third highest in the EU >>

By Emma White

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