This afternoon I met virtually with Paul Scully, the Minister for Small Business (and neighbouring MP for Sutton and Cheam) to discuss concerns around UK hospitality and weddings.
Paul has been a fierce advocate for the sector throughout the pandemic, and I have been pleased to be able to speak with him frequently on behalf of local businesses affected by COVID-related restrictions.
We discussed the challenges facing pubs, breweries, restaurants, the wider night-time economy like clubs and bars, as well as events and weddings, as we continue with Tier 4 across London and the rest of the UK.
I was clear that we absolutely need to have a roadmap to reopening so that we can give businesses the certainty they need around how and when the tiering system will be wound down, and that the Treasury has to ensure sufficient financial support is in place whilst restrictions remain in place.
I was pleased that the Minister agreed with me on this, and has undertaken to take the matter up with colleagues across Government. I will be meeting with the Chancellor later on today to have similar discussions.
I will continue to do all that I can to support the hospitality, events and weddings industries, as I very much look forward to my own wedding taking place this summer!
