Pubs, bars and hotels report ‘Burnham bounce’ in optimism but call for further tax relief

Eating and drinking at Chester Market. Andy Burnham’s action to back hospitality has boosted optimism but ‘significant challenges remain’, said the trade bodies.
Photograph: Aleksey Zotov/Alamy

Pubs, bars and hotels have reported a “Burnham bounce” in optimism as a result of the prime minister’s overtures to the sector, polling suggests, but they warn that the goodwill could evaporate without further tax relief.

Andy Burnham has positioned himself as a staunch ally of the UK’s hospitality industry both before and since his arrival at No 10, announcing last month a discount on business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues.