A significant number of pubs and restaurants across Britain have initiated a campaign to ban Labour Members of Parliament (MPs) in response to escalating business taxes. This movement, which began on March 15, 2024, has seen owners displaying “No Labour MPs” stickers prominently on their establishments. Approximately 50 venues have joined the protest, with requests for materials coming from various regions, including Clacton-on-Sea.
Campaign Against Rising Taxes Gains Momentum
The initiative was spearheaded by Andy Lennox, proprietor of the Old Thatch pub in Dorset. Lennox expressed his excitement about the campaign’s rapid growth, stating, “It’s springing up in different towns. By the end of the week, it will be all over the place.” His sentiments reflect widespread discontent within the hospitality sector following recent tax announcements.
The protest follows UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves‘ announcement of a permanent 5 percent tax cut for hospitality and retail businesses during her November Budget presentation. Despite her claims of establishing “the lowest tax rates since 1991,” many business owners are grappling with increased expenses. The end of pandemic-era business rates relief in April is particularly concerning, as reductions have already been scaled back from 75 percent to 40 percent.
According to UK Hospitality, the industry trade body, the average pub’s business rates are projected to surge by 76 percent over the next three years. This alarming statistic has raised fears of widespread job losses within the sector. Lennox highlighted his own situation, noting that his projected rates bill is set to more than double in the next two years. He criticized the Labour government, stating, “They’re taxing hospitality into extinction and dressing it up as cutting rates and helping us.”
Local MPs Face Backlash
Other owners, like James Fowler, who operates the Larder House in Bournemouth, have also implemented similar bans on Labour MPs, including local representative Tom Hayes. Fowler emphasized that his decision was not personal, affirming, “I told Tom it wasn’t personal. He’s a great local MP, I voted for him, but this isn’t a local issue.”
Hayes, who facilitated meetings between local business owners and the Chancellor prior to the Budget announcement, expressed concern that such bans hinder his ability to represent his constituents effectively. He remarked, “I can’t listen to business owners, represent them to the government, and secure the powers and support they need.”
In Warwickshire, Rick Cressman, owner of the Nailcote Hotel, has also opted to ban Labour MPs. He revealed that last year’s Budget forced him to reduce his young workforce by 25 percent, reflecting the real-world impact of financial decisions made at the governmental level.
The actions taken by these establishments highlight a mounting frustration among business owners regarding the perceived disconnect between government policies and the realities faced by the hospitality industry. As this campaign expands, it underscores the critical need for dialogue and understanding between policymakers and those directly affected by their decisions.
