The Prince of Wales has made a heartfelt public intervention in support of Britain's embattled community pubs, praising their vital social role as the industry faces an anxious wait for promised financial assistance with soaring business rates.
Royal Endorsement for the Local Boozer
During a visit to 'The Goth' pub in the former mining village of Fallin, near Stirling, Prince William enjoyed a half-pint of cider and spoke warmly about the importance of local establishments. He emphasised their function in fostering genuine human connection and providing a much-needed escape from digital screens.
'I want to help pubs. This is the best place to come and get to know each other,' William told locals. '[Pubs are] the heart of the community. I grew up in pubs. I absolutely love pubs.'
The future King highlighted the simple value of camaraderie, joking about the importance of 'banter with your friends' and noting that 'we all need that occasionally. It brings us back down to earth.'
Industry on a Financial Knife-Edge
However, the royal visit comes against a backdrop of severe financial strain for the pub sector. Publicans are demanding clarity on when further business rate relief, pledged by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, will actually materialise.
There are growing fears of widespread closures as venues grapple with a perfect storm of rising business rates, increased National Insurance contributions, and a sluggish economy that is forcing consumers to cut back on leisure spending.
Government Promises and Delays
Speaking from the World Economic Forum in Davos a week ago, Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that pubs would receive 'more temporary support', marking a climbdown from a previous Budget decision.
While a £4.3 billion fund was established to help with the transition to higher rates, the Chancellor acknowledged that 'for some pubs there is still a big increase'. She promised an announcement on extra financial aid within 'the next few days and weeks'.
Despite these assurances, both the Treasury and Number 10 have so far declined to specify when this crucial help will arrive, leaving publicans in a state of uncertainty.
Political Focus on Pubs
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stated last week that the Government is working with the sector 'to ensure that they get the support that they need', following outcry over the impact of the upcoming rates hike.
However, the Government is reportedly resisting calls to extend similar financial aid to other struggling hospitality businesses, with Ms Reeves indicating that the 'biggest concern' is specifically focused on pubs.
The rate increase stems from a combination of property revaluations and the withdrawal of Covid-era discounts, a policy change announced by the Chancellor in November.
The Goth: A Pub Steeped in Community History
The Prince's chosen venue, The Goth in Fallin, embodies the community spirit he praised. Named after a Swedish tradition where profits are reinvested locally, these pubs were once numerous in the county, but only four now remain.
The pub's history is deeply intertwined with the village, which grew around the Polmaise Colliery. It served not only as a place for miners to drink after shifts but also as a community hub where supervisors could monitor workers' consumption.
Its social role has been profound:
- Before the NHS existed, the tavern funded a doctor and nurse for local residents.
- Today, the two flats above the pub offer affordable rent to young people saving for a house deposit.
- It maintains strong links with local groups, including a bowls club founded in 1911.
The village of Fallin itself gained prominence during the bitter miners' strike of the 1980s, with its workers being among the first to walk out and the last to return.
During his visit, William—known in Scotland as the Duke of Rothesay—was briefed on how The Goth continues to champion these deep community connections, serving as a living example of the institution he seeks to protect.
