Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what recent assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of new regulatory costs, including new packaging costs, on pubs.

The potential impact of regulatory changes on pubs is carefully considered as part of policy development, and the Government regularly engages with the pub industry to understand the pressures businesses face. With regard to Extended Producer Responsibility for packaging, we are aware of concerns about the classification of packaging that is disposed of through commercial waste streams, including through pubs. We are working closely with stakeholders on this issue.

We are reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens and supporting pubs to grow. The National Licensing Policy Framework for England and Wales has set a new strategic direction for licensing authorities to have greater regard for growth when considering licensing applications and decisions. We also extended opening hours during the Men’s Football World Cup and are backing “pavement pints” by making it easier for hospitality businesses to serve food and drink outside.