East Hampshire Pub Bans Labour MPs Over Rising Hospitality Costs

The landlord of The Trooper pub in Froxfield, East Hampshire, has decided to bar Labour MPs from entering his establishment, reflecting growing frustration in the hospitality sector regarding escalating costs. Chris Skinner announced the decision online, joining a movement that has garnered significant attention and sparked a mix of praise and criticism.

Skinner, while expressing his discontent, emphasized that his stance is not anti-Labour. He stated that he would prohibit MPs from any ruling party due to the detrimental impact current and past governments have had on the hospitality industry. “It wouldn’t matter what government was in power, be that the Tories, Labour, Liberal Democrats or Reform,” he explained. “They have the power to make positive changes to help this industry, and that includes restaurants and hotels, but they haven’t.”

Support for the No Labour MPs Movement Grows

The movement has gained traction, with over 300 pubs, restaurants, and hotels reportedly joining since its launch just over a week ago. Many in the hospitality sector are voicing concerns that the government’s multibillion-pound support is insufficient to alleviate the financial pressures caused by rising VAT, business rates, and utility costs.

Despite Skinner’s bold move, he has yet to receive any direct communication from Labour representatives. Critics have pointed out that his actions come after years of Conservative governance, questioning why he did not voice similar concerns during that time. “I wasn’t at the Trooper Inn before Labour came to power,” Skinner remarked, highlighting that his current frustrations are specifically tied to the present government’s inaction.

The Celebrity Effect and Public Perception

In a striking comparison, Skinner noted the support given to a well-known celebrity pub landlord who has made similar statements. He questioned why such actions have led to public acclaim for celebrities while he faces vilification for expressing his beliefs as a typical pub landlord. “I see a well-known celebrity pub landlord has done the same thing, and he’s publicly lauded. So why should Jeremy Clarkson get praised, but the common landlord of a run-of-the-mill pub be vilified for doing the same thing?” he asked.

Skinner insists that his decision is not merely a reaction to celebrity actions but rather a reflection of a broader sentiment within the hospitality industry. The financial strain on pubs is an ongoing issue, and he believes that many others share his perspective. As the situation develops, the hospitality sector continues to seek meaningful support that addresses their pressing concerns.