Lib Dem MP calls to save the community pub

A Liberal Democrat MP has called on the Government to take action to save the community pub including the introduction of legislation that would make it difficult to close a pub if it was against the wishes of the local community.

In an Early Day Motion (EDM) tabled yesterday, Greg Mulholland, MP for Leeds North West, said that he noted with "concern and regret" that 26 community pubs a month are closing

He urged the House of Commons to take action to address the high levels of closure, including tackling the issue of some pub companies charging unreasonable rents.

Mulholland wants to end the rights of pub companies being able to demolish or convert pubs to residential use without planning permission.

He also argued that community pubs were a place to curb current problems with socially irresponsible drinking.

"Community pubs provide an environment in which people can and do enjoy alcohol responsibly and have a very important role in producing an appropriate culture for people to drink in," Mulholland said.

"If there was more emphasis on this genuine pub culture we would not have many of the problems associated with excessive drinking."

Drinks lobby group Camra (Campaign for Real Ale) is holding community pubs week this week.

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By Christopher Walton

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