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Written question asked by Gareth Snell (Labour) on Tuesday, 1 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 3 September 2026. It was answered by Kate Dearden (Labour) on Wednesday, 9 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade.


Beer: Small Businesses

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade, whether he plans to publish the outcome of the consultation on access to market for small and independent brewers before Christmas recess 2026.

Answer

The Government recognises the important contribution that pubs and small and independent breweries make to local economies and communities across the country, and remains committed to supporting a diverse and competitive beer and pub sector.

Over the last six months I have met with all interested stakeholders directly to consider the evidence received through the review of the beer market and I have discussed this evidence in detail with policy experts within my department.

However, The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) recently wrote to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) requesting a market investigation into this area. Given the CMA's role as the UK's independent competition regulator, it is important that the CMA is given the opportunity to consider that request.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
26080
Session
2026-27
Related items
Beer: Small Businesses
Monday, 14 September 2026
Written questions
House of Commons
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Beer Small businesses
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk