Farron steps up fight against pubco conduct and local pub closures

3.00.00pm GMT Wed 27th Feb 2008

Local MP Tim Farron will meet today with representatives from the Freedom for Pubs Association as part of his fight for a fairer deal for pub landlords who are finding themselves increasingly indebted, sometimes to the tune of hundreds of thousands of pounds, to the large pub chains.

Mr Farron had previously tabled a parliamentary motion, which has received support from MPs from all the three main parties, on the issue and has written to the Competition Commission asking that they investigate pubcos.

Tim Farron said:

"Pub landlords are in many cases being treated scandalously by the large pub chains. Pubcos may be making millions of pounds in profits and yet rent is still being increased hand-over-fist.

"The Freedom for Pubs Association is an excellent forum for landlords to voice their concerns. We absolutely must act now to prevent more and more pubs from going out of business."