Esther McVey: 'Unnecessary hurdles are being put in way of hospitality recovery'

Two years of uncertainty with closures and part lockdowns has taken its toll. 

Throughout lockdown I worked with my local pubs and eateries sharing with Government the challenges they faced and then worked with ministers on the support that could be put in place – including grants, reduced VAT and Eat Out to Help Out. 

Now, with all Covid restrictions finally lifted, the industry is hoping to get back on its feet, pay off debts it accrued during lockdown and move forward.

However, the sector now faces a new set of challenges.  

The increase in gas and electricity prices is going to have a massive impact on them from heating venues to cooking meals, their bills are set to soar and home deliveries will cost them extra too as fuel prices rise and add that to the planned increase in National Insurance – which I voted against – their bills are set to get much bigger. 

On top of which, there are staff shortages to contend with and, as of next month, many will face the extra bureaucracy of having to add calorie counts to their menu.

Unnecessary hurdles are being put in their way and I have relayed these matters to the Treasury. 

Esther McVey (Image: Newsquest)

For Tatton businesses to survive and thrive I have urged the Chancellor to scrap the proposed NIC rise, help tackle the increase in electricity, gas and fuel by reducing VAT and reducing green taxes and asked for business rates to be reduced – this is a long standing issue – for too long businesses on the high street are unfairly taxed in comparison to online businesses. 

Councils also have a role to play too in supporting businesses.

This week I went to The Stanley Arms in Anderton and spoke with executive manager Moira, who on top of all of those problems is now facing the challenges of people getting to her venue.

Road closures in the area and lack of signage mean people are driving elsewhere.

I have written to Cheshire West and Chester Council asking them to expedite any necessary repairs.

We all have a part to play in supporting our local businesses and I will keep pushing the Prime Minister and Chancellor over these important issues and hope Cheshire West and Cheshire will step in and stop causing additional problems for The Stanley Arms and other local businesses in the area.