The Scottish Beer & Pub Association has called on politicians across the political spectrum to show their support for Scotland's pubs by creating a new role of Pubs Minister in the new Scottish Government.
Scotland's beer and pub industry already supports 60,000 jobs and adds £1.6bn to the economy. Now the SBPA has set politicians the challenge to take on 'probably the best job in Government'.
Paul Togneri of the Scottish Beer & Pub Association said, “60,000 jobs rely on the beer and pub industry. We make a huge contribution providing career opportunities for young people, supporting tourism, and investing in local communities. Yet pubs face real cost and legislative challenges.
“The time is right to create a champion at the heart of government. Our manifesto sets out a clear plan to secure the role of Scotland's pubs at the heart of communities. The Pubs Minister could help address the burden of business rates on the sector, support skills and apprenticeships, drive innovation and investment, and help rural pubs. With so much positive to offer, we think being Scottish Pubs Minister is probably the best job in Government!”
Pubs are now operating in an ever-increasing and busy marketplace with cafes, casual dining and other forms of entertainment. This, coupled with new pressures from the UK Living Wage and the new drink driving limit has added to the challenges facing the industry. The SBPA is calling for a range of measures to support such a vital industry to Scotland’s economy, heritage and culture.
Amongst the top priorities for the SBPA is further action on businesses rates, support for a new apprenticeship scheme, a pilot fund for improving connectivity and transport in rural areas, continued support for lowering beer duty and the creation of a Scottish pubs minister.