What assessment he has made of the implications for his Department's policies of the report by Punch Pubs entitled Evaluating the Economic and Social Impact of Pubs, published in April 2026; and if he will publish the steps he is planning to take to support the long‑term sustainability and growth of pubs.
The Government recognises the important economic and social role pubs play in communities and welcomes the Punch Pubs report, Evaluating the Economic and Social Impact of Pubs, published in April 2026.The findings add to the wider evidence base on the value pubs bring to local economies and wellbeing. The Government is taking action to support the long‑term sustainability of pubs, including a targeted business rates support package. This includes a 15% discount on business rates bills from April 2026, and a review of how pubs are valued for business rates purposes.The Government will continue to engage with the sector, including meeting with Punch Pubs as part of this engagement and will keep the effectiveness of existing support under review to ensure pubs can continue to thrive.