Labour MPs have issued a stark warning that toddlers could be left with no choice but to socialise in pubs if community venues like cafes and soft play centres are forced to close due to a lack of government support. The alert comes in response to the government's recent announcement of a targeted business rates relief package for the hospitality industry.
Targeted Relief Excludes Key Community Spaces
The government has confirmed a 15 per cent reduction in business rates for pubs and music venues across England, effective from the 2026/27 financial year. This reduction is set to be "frozen in real terms" for the subsequent two years, providing a significant financial boost to these establishments. However, the relief package notably excludes other vital community spaces, including cafes, soft play areas, and community centres, which are often frequented by families with young children.
Labour MPs Voice Concerns Over Sector-Wide Pressures
Labour MP Stella Creasy has been particularly vocal in criticising this exclusion, arguing that it fails to address the widespread financial pressures facing the broader hospitality sector. Creasy warned that omitting these venues from the support package could lead to their widespread closure, drastically reducing social options for parents. "If cafes and soft plays shut down, parents might have no alternative but to take their children to pubs," she stated, highlighting the potential social implications.
Other Labour MPs, including Jim McMahon and Rachael Maskell, have echoed these concerns, urging the government to broaden the support to encompass the entire hospitality sector. They cite rising operational costs, inflation, and post-pandemic recovery challenges as factors necessitating more comprehensive assistance.
Government Defends Focused Approach
Treasury minister Dan Tomlinson defended the government's targeted approach, emphasising that pubs are "valued differently" within communities and thus warrant specific support. He acknowledged the concerns raised by MPs and committed to further engagement on the issue, suggesting that future discussions could explore ways to assist other types of venues. However, no immediate plans to extend the relief were announced.
The debate underscores a growing tension between targeted economic measures and the need for holistic support for community infrastructure. As families rely on diverse venues for social interaction and childcare, the outcome of this policy could significantly impact local communities across England.
