New Scottish first minister, John Swinney, has been invited by CAMRA to a pub of his choice to discuss issues surrounding the Scottish pub and beer industry. These include business rates, alcohol advertising, planning laws, and the Scottish Pubs Code.
The first minister’s appointment comes soon after the Scottish government’s decision to implement a new statutory Scottish Pubs Code and adjudicator.
CAMRA hopes to build on this long-awaited, but welcome news in a meeting with Mr Swinney, to make sure there is a robust Pubs Code to protect tied pub tenants and to secure pubs at the heart of Scottish communities.
CAMRA’s Scotland director, Stuart McMahon, also wants Mr Swinney to close a planning loophole that allows pubs to be demolished without planning permission.
And campaigners want to see a commitment from the Scottish government not to bring back draconian plans to ban all alcohol advertisement and sponsorship.
“We would like to congratulate John Swinney on becoming the first minister of Scotland,” said Stuart. “While we are sure he has a lot on his plate, urgent discussions must be had to ensure a successful future for Scottish pubs.
“This is why we invite the first minister to a pub of his choice to discuss the various ways in which pub, brewing, and cider-making industries can be improved to ameliorate the pub-going experience for beer and cider consumers.
“Our priorities for this meeting, and for the Scottish government, will be fairer business rates for pubs, confirmation of a decision to allow alcohol advertising in Scotland, a more secure planning law system, and a muscular, robust Scottish Pubs Code.”
