LOCAL AM CAMPAIGNS TO PROTECT OUR PUBS

NATIONAL Assembly Member for Monmouth, Nick Ramsay, has today pledged his support for Monmouthshire's traditional, local pubs.

Research shows that 84% of people believe a pub is as essential to village life as a shop or post office.

However, despite their popularity, the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has found that many local pubs are struggling and around 1,300 pubs nationwide are currently under threat of closure.

Speaking today, Nick said: "The loss of pubs, particularly in rural areas such as Monmouthshire, can undermine the local economy and community life.

"Whilst I appreciate that there are concerns over the growth in binge drinking, we must be careful not to punish the majority of adults who enjoy alcohol responsibly. Traditional, local pubs are an environment that tends to encourage responsible drinking.

"In the current economic climate, I understand that for many people the cost of a pint at their local pub is becoming increasingly expensive at a time when their disposable income is being squeezed. I believe that a much better approach would be to specifically target those drinks associated with binge drinking. I am also mindful of the impact changes to alcohol duty have on the pub trade.

"In my opinion the best place to enjoy a decent pint is in the pub and so I am keen to see that Monmouthshire's quality, traditional pubs remain a permanent feature across the county."