Twickenham pub owner reacts with scepticism to the government's newly announced support package for pubs across the UK.

The measures, unveiled yesterday (27 January), include a 15% cut to business rates bills for most pubs from April, a two-year freeze on rates, and £10 million in funding for the Hospitality Support Fund.

The package also promises licensing flexibilities for major events such as the Men's FIFA World Cup and Eurovision, aiming to boost footfall and help local communities.

But James Morgan, from Morgan Pub Co, which runs three pubs in Twickenham, said the measures don't go far enough.

"This is a sticking plaster on a massive wound. It's laughable," he told Nub News. "The main issue here is—why do we need a support package in the first place?

"Due to the crazy tax amounts we pay in the first place and constant rises."

The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) said it would "stave off the immediate financial threat posed by accelerating business costs and will help keep the doors open for many".

According to the Treasury Minister Dan Tomlinson, the three-year package would save up to £1,650 next year.

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Morgan Pub Co's locations in Twickenham include the recently refurbed The George as well as The Sussex Arms and The Crane Tap. It also owns restaurant Arthur's Cafe & Pizzeria.

To learn more and support the pub collective click here.

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