Wetherspoon boss: ‘Not up to Burnham’ to choose who is on the high street
Wetherspoon's Tim Martin criticizes PM Andy Burnham's high street plans, defending legal vape and gambling shops.Summary
Sir Tim Martin, the founder of pub chain JD Wetherspoon, has publicly criticized Prime Minister Andy Burnham's plans to rejuvenate British high streets by targeting vape shops and gambling centres. Martin argues that it is not the government's role to decide what legal businesses should be on the high street, stating that vape shops are legal, pay rent and rates, and employ people. He aligns with retail tycoon Mike Ashley's view that the policies are populist soundbites rather than addressing real financial issues. Martin also expressed concern over a new tourist accommodation tax and highlighted the unfair tax disparity between pubs and supermarkets, which he says has cost pubs half their beer trade. To demonstrate potential savings from a tax break, Wetherspoon plans a 7.5% price cut on all food and drink next Thursday. Martin concludes that trading conditions for pubs are 'infinitely more difficult' now than when he started.
(Source：City A.M.)
