'Give our pubs more support' - MPs urges the Government to help struggling businesses in south Leicestershire

Alberto Costa visiting the Baker’s Arms in Blaby alongside Stephen Gould (R), Managing Director of Everards, and the pub’s Licensee, Chris Smart (Cent).

The Government is being urged to give more urgent support to struggling pubs in Harborough amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The call has come from South Leicestershire MP Alberto Costa.

The Conservative MP is acting after holding talks with South Leicestershire-based Everards Brewery and worried local landlords.

Alberto has now written to Chancellor Rishi Sunak requesting a “targeted support package” for pubs and hospitality businesses forced to close under tough new Tier 3 restrictions.

“My office has been contacted by pub landlords from across South Leicestershire over the past few days.

“They are deeply concerned as to their future under the Tier 3 restrictions we are facing here,” said the MP.

“Given the high rates of infection locally, I support the restrictions in place.

“However, it is imperative that businesses in the hospitality sector are given the proper level of support to assist them while they are required to close.

“Local pubs and the fantastic Everards Brewery, based in my constituency, have taken considerable lengths to ensure their premises are safe for both staff and patrons.

“But far too often businesses in this sector have faced the sharp end of Covid restrictions.

“In many areas pubs are the focal point for our communities and they simply cannot afford to be lost.

“That’s why I am pleased to be making the case to the Chancellor directly on this issue.”