MP Antony Higginbotham has spoken up in support of local pubs within Burnley and Padiham. Using Parliamentary time, he raised the importance of protecting these ‘vital local community hubs’ as local businesses battle cost of living pressures.
Since 2020 Antony has run a summer surgery tour which has included visiting as many local pubs as possible whilst making himself accessible to residents.
Speaking in the House of Commons today Antony said:
Pubs play a really important role across our communities and our local economies. In Burnley and Padiham we've got places like the Woodman, the Royal Butterfly, the Bridge Inn, the Railway Inn - and I suspect every member could run a massive list of pubs that are important.
But I know from speaking to pub landlords that the cost of living is having a real impact on their viability. So, could we have a debate in government time on how we can support pubs, so they stay at the heart of our local communities?
Responding Leader of the House Penny Mordaunt MP said:
Well, I'm sure I speak for all members of this House when we say we completely agree with the honourable gentleman's praise for these very important community assets, though not just where you can get a decent pint, but they also provide a social network for people.
And some, of course, are actually running community services out of them, post offices and so on. They are at the heart of all communities. We should treasure them. And I absolutely agree that a debate would be very well attended. I'd encourage him to apply for one. And I will also make sure that the relevant department has heard his concerns that we should continue doing all we can to support these very important community assets.
Commenting afterwards, Antony said:
Pubs act as vital local community hubs – bringing a wide variety of people together in a community setting.
Whether it’s the Royal Dyche with its live bands under the Culvert, places like the Ighten Leigh Social Club or the more rural pubs like the Roggerham Gate, I’ll always be a voice supporting our pub landlords and landladies.
I have and will continue to make the case to government that we have to be doing all we can to protect them.
