Local MP Norman Baker has pledged his support to Campaign for Real Ale's Beer Drinkers and Pub Goers Charter after attending the Westminster launch of the Charter last Wednesday, 3 February.
The Charter calls on politicians, amongst other things, to support the 15 million regular pub goers in the UK and champion local pubs.
Commenting Norman said: "There is no doubt that local pubs have been hit particularly hard over the last few years, not least by the predatory pricing adopted by supermarkets. Recently this has been compounded by the downturn in the economy. It is a real shame to see pubs closing down at such a high rate and we must take steps to prevent further closures in the future. We must also recognise that, particularly in the smaller rural areas, the pub is often more than a pub. It is the communal centre for people to get together."
The Charter also calls for steps to be taken to address issues of alcohol related harm.
Norman added: "We have certainly seen in recent years an increase of anti-social alcohol consumption on the streets and much of this in my view can be put firmly at the doors of the irresponsibly low pricing of alcohol at some supermarkets. This pricing has also harmed the success of local pubs which, if run well, can provide a safe and responsible place for adults to drink. We must therefore look at the benefits that local pubs can provide for controlled social drinking as an alternative to binge drinking on low cost booze. It is for these reasons that I am in full support of the Charter, and local pubs."
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