Debates between Greg Knight and Mike Wood during the 2019 Parliament

Beer and Pub Taxation

Debate between Greg Knight and Mike Wood
Wednesday 5th February 2020

(4 years, 1 month ago)

Westminster Hall
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Mike Wood Portrait Mike Wood
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The hon. Gentleman could not have read my mind more thoroughly if he had had a copy of my speech.

Greg Knight Portrait Sir Greg Knight (East Yorkshire) (Con)
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Will my hon. Friend give way?

Mike Wood Portrait Mike Wood
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I had almost answered the previous intervention, so I will of course give way.

Greg Knight Portrait Sir Greg Knight
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I am most obliged to my hon. Friend for giving way, and I congratulate him on securing the debate. May I amplify the point that was just made and ask whether he agrees that the public house is the heart and soul of the local village in many rural areas?

Mike Wood Portrait Mike Wood
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I would go further than that: in many areas, and not only rural areas, the pub is the last service, and often the last facility, in the town or village. Often, it is not just a place to drink, but also the place with the shop or where people get their hair cut. There might also be a jobs club or any number of other services there.