AN MP fears extending a smoking ban to outdoor areas could spell last orders for some pubs.

Tatton MP Esther McVey is calling on the government to drop its plans which could threaten jobs and businesses.

The hospitality sector, she said, employs an estimated one million people, pays £18 billion to the Exchequer and is backed by 72 per cent of British adults as having a ‘positive impact on society’.

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However, she said the government ‘appears it is doing all it can to destroy it’.

Speaking in a Parliamentary debate on support for pubs and the hospitality sector, she said pubs across Tatton are very concerned.

Local publicans fear the ban could see footfall fall by up to 30 per cent in venues more reliant on wet sales and could be ‘enough to close them’.

Ms McVey said: “Pubs are cornerstones of our communities, social hubs for our constituents and play a key role in local economies.

“In my own constituency of Tatton there are 89 pubs and three breweries, supporting 2,350 jobs, generating £29 million pounds in tax and contribute £60 million pounds to the economy.”

She called on government to axe its proposal, but said ‘at the very least’ if it was intent on pushing ahead it must consult with the industry and do an impact assessment - something ‘this government tries to shy away from’.

A ban on smoking in pub gardens and other outdoor venues is being considered because of the ‘huge burden’ smoking puts on the NHS and the taxpayer, Sir Keir Starmer has confirmed.

The prime minister said ministers were looking at banning smoking in other places too, including outdoor restaurants and outside sports venues, hospitals, nightclubs and in some small parks.

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable illness in the UK, and second hand smoke increases the risk of heart disease, cancer, and other diseases.

In the wide-ranging debate, Ms McVey also reiterated her call for business rate relief (introduced by the last government which will end in March) to be extended until there is a full overhaul of the tax – something she has been proposing for years.

In addition, she said Labour’s proposed increase in NI contributions would devastate the already struggling pub and hospitality sector, as would Labour’s new workers’ rights bill which by government’s own analysis could cost businesses up to £5 billion a year to implement.

Ms McVey added: “Labour really needs to stop putting extra burdens and taxes on our pubs and businesses - or they will see some unable to cope and close their doors for good next year.”