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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