PUBS AND BANK LENDING PRACTICES

Early day motion 920, tabled 27 February 2009 by Greg Mulholland (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 54 members.

That this House is deeply concerned by reports from licensees and pub owners that they have been unable to access credit and have been told by bank representatives that it is their policy not to offer finance to pubs; is worried that pubs like many small businesses are often dependent on such credit lifelines, particularly during such difficult economic times; is disappointed that these banks do not appear to be adhering to requirements laid out by the Treasury that funds made available to the banking sector would be dependent upon banks giving a commitment to lend to small businesses; and believes that action should be taken to ensure that banks extend credit to pubs, as they would other small businesses.

Signatures by party: Labour 29, Liberal Democrat 15, Conservative 7, Social Democratic and Labour Party 2, Independent 1.