RATE RELIEF FOR VILLAGE PUBS

Early day motion 255, tabled 12 January 2000 by John Grogan (Labour). Signed by 131 members.

That this House notes from the recent survey of the Countryside Agency and BBC televsion's Countryfile programme that up to six rural pubs are now shutting every week; regards the village pub as an important focal point for rural community life; and urges the Government to extend 50 per cent. mandatory rate relief to village pubs on the same basis as that enjoyed by village post offices and village stores.

Signatures by party: Labour 71, Conservative 27, Liberal Democrat 22, Labour/Co-operative 7, Plaid Cymru 2, Independent Labour 1, Unknown 1.