Ana Boulter talks to Dawn Neesom about black labradors and pubs being branded as ‘far right’.
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Britain is on track to lose around one pub every day this year, putting approximately 5,000 jobs at risk.
Figures published by the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) show that 295 pubs permanently closed during the first nine months of 2026.
The trade body expects the total number of closures to reach around 360 by the end of December, equivalent to almost one pub disappearing every day.
The BBPA estimates that the closures could result in approximately 5,000 job losses.
More than half of the roles affected are held by people under the age of 25, leaving younger workers particularly exposed.
England recorded the largest number of closures, with 226 pubs shutting permanently between January and September.
Scotland lost 64 pubs over the same period, while five closed in Wales.
The South East was the worst-affected region in England, recording 42 closures. It was followed by the North West, where 39 pubs permanently ceased trading.
Pub operators have blamed high taxes, rising employment expenses and other regulatory costs for placing increasing pressure on businesses.
The industry has received some relief through the business rates system.
Pubs are benefiting from a 15 per cent business rates discount during the current tax year, followed by a 20 per cent reduction from next year.
Industry leaders said the support would make a meaningful difference but warned that further action was needed to prevent more pubs from closing.
They are urging Prime Minister Andy Burnham to address the other taxes and labour costs weighing on the sector.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the BBPA, said: “When a local closes, the damage is felt far and wide.
“It’s not just workers, communities, our heritage and high streets who lose out when a pub closes.
The Treasury loses, on average, £200,000 in tax receipts every time a local calls last orders.”
The BBPA is calling on the Government to introduce what it considers a permanently fairer business rates system, freeze beer duty and increase draught relief.
It also wants ministers to review the employment costs attached to workers under the age of 25, who account for more than half of the jobs expected to be lost.
Ms McClarkin said these measures would allow pubs to continue supporting employment, contributing to the economy and serving as important parts of their communities.
She added: “This will mean we can carry on keeping people in jobs, boosting the economy, and being at the heart of communities.”
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