500 Election Candidates sign up to support CAMRA Charter

Issued: Monday April 19^th 2010

Status: For immediate use

Following the launch of CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale’s Beer Drinkers and Pub Goers Charter in February, over 500 Prospective Parliamentary Candidates (PPCs) have signed up to five commitments to speak up for community pubs, real ale and consumers if elected.

Among the supporters are Green Party Leader Caroline Lucas, Labour PPC Ruth Smeeth, Conservative PPC Nigel Evans and Nick Clegg, Leader of the Liberal Democrats.

On the basis of current polling, well over 100 of these supporters are set to be elected on May 6^th.

Mike Benner, CAMRA Chief Executive said:

‘The overwhelming response from PPCs is great news for beer drinkers and pub goers across the UK. We expect the next parliament to contain a huge number of MPs who have committed to vital reforms which are necessary to save the UK pub industry.

‘The issues that matter to CAMRA like reform of the beer tie, protection of community pubs and a fair deal for consumers can no longer be ignored by politicians. Many of CAMRA’s key policies including reform of planning law, amendment of licensing law and encouraging responsible drinking featured in each of the main parties’ manifestos last week.’

Nick Clegg, Liberal Democrat Leader said:

‘I am proud to be a signatory to the charter and to help bring attention to the much-needed support required for well-run community pubs, local brewers and consumer rights which all contribute to community life and boost the local economy.

‘Well-run pubs are important to tackling alcohol misuse, they are not part of the problem. Government policies, such as continually raising duty on beer and refusing to reform the beer tie, have led to a situation in which more than 5 pubs a day are said to be closing. It is hugely important that we stand up for the pub industry during these difficult times.’

Paul Kenny, Labour PPC for Boston and Skegness said: 'I think that CAMRA has done a sterling job over the years and I am very happy to back their Charter. Decent and well-run pubs are the bedrock of our communities and deserve our support.'

Claire Perry, Conservative PPC for Devizes said: 'I absolutely agree with all of your aims and believe a village pub to be one of the pillars of the local community.'

CAMRA is now encouraging all 500 candidates to integrate their support for CAMRA’s Charter and community pubs with their election campaigning by visiting community pubs, gaining local press coverage and getting involved with their local CAMRA branch. So far PPCs have launched campaigns to save a pub in their constituency, and commissioned campaign beer mats.