Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst, Member of Parliament for Solihull West & Shirley, is a strong advocate for local pubs. In February 2025, the local MP supported pubs within the constituency with his ‘Best Local Pub 2025’ competition to promote the sector.
Under the last Government, the average pub in Solihull benefitted from 75% relief, reducing their bill to £8,999. This has been cut by the Labour Government to just 40%, resulting in bills soaring way above the national average in Solihull to £21,954. In addition, due to National Insurance Contributions (NICs) increases, local pubs will face an average annual tax increase of more than £800 per employee. Whilst the average employer will see their liabilities increase by around £26,000.
On Wednesday 2nd April 2025, Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst attended the British Beer and Pub Association’s (BBPA) Pub Showcase in Parliament. Also in attendance was the Stonegate Group, who are based in Shirley and own four pubs in the Solihull West & Shirley constituency.
Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst said:
I attended the Pub Showcase, held by the BBPA, to meet with local employers such as Lee from the Stonegate Group, to hear about their experiences, challenges and opportunities. I was hugely impressed by the Stonegate Group and their passion for the sector. It is clear that pubs in Solihull West & Shirley offer more than just a great pint. Our pubs connect people, provide essential community services, and fuel entrepreneurial spirit.
In Parliament, I am challenging the decisions that Labour have made, which are having profound consequences on the hospitality industry. Since taking office, Labour have chosen to implement changes to business rates, increasing NICs, and the introduction of the Employees Rights Bill. This is a cocktail of anti-growth policies and will hit our local hospitality sector. Outside of London, pubs in Solihull will foot the highest bill rises following Labour’s tax raid - with an increase on average of £12,955.
