A calculated attack on public's right to know

GOVERNMENT MOVING TO REMOVE PUBLIC NOTICES

- By EDD MOORE [e-mail]

WHO isn't a fan of late nights and good times, huh? Well, we learned last week that Britain is going to party its way to economic growth under the Government's grand new plans to let pubs stay open around the clock.

As an enthusiastic supporter of local pubs and the grassroots music scene I'd like to raise a glass to Sir Keir Starmer and co for stepping up to help the long-suffering hospitality industry. I'd like to - but I can't.

The trouble is, beyond the headline-grabbing claims of "cutting red tape" and reviving the "British night out" (whatever that is - answers on a postcard) there's a looming Unhappy Hour in store for local communities.

Let's get one thing straight: our pubs need all the help they can get. They're the heart and soul of our communities and yet 209 premises closed down in the first six months of this year alone.

Every month The Herald seems to be reporting on another cherished local pub, venue or nightclub that's been forced to shut for good. And each time, the outpouring of grief from readers is palpable.

That's why earlier this year we launched our Pub of the Year awards - to shine a light on these beloved community assets that need and deserve all the help they can get.

When we spoke to landlords they all told us the same thing: 2025 was a rough year due to rising costs, rising rents and rising taxes specifically April's National Insurance hike.