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Written question asked by Julian Smith (Conservative) on Tuesday, 7 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 9 July 2026. It was answered by Kate Dearden (Labour) on Wednesday, 15 July 2026 on behalf of the Department for Business and Trade.

Public Houses: Codes of Practice

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of introducing a Guest Beer Agreement in England and Wales, similar to the Guest Beer Agreement already in place in Scotland.

Answer

The Government has been reviewing beer market access to consider whether there are any structural barriers preventing small breweries from accessing pubs. As part of this work, Ministers have met with stakeholders from across the sector to consider the evidence submitted. The issues raised are complex, and the Government is carefully assessing all relevant evidence, alongside advice from competition policy experts, before determining next steps.

The Government recognises the sector's interest in the outcome of this review. While I am unable to provide a publication date at this stage, the Government will announce its conclusions and any next steps in due course.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
16412
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Codes of practice Beer Public houses
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk