James Wild

James Wild

Conservative — North West Norfolk

Speaking in the House of Commons on 13 January 2026

Debate

Finance (No. 2) Bill

Contribution

They absolutely are. I would be happy to come to my right hon. Friend’s constituency to discuss this over a pint in one of those small rural pubs, which are the hub of our villages and hamlets. Once they are gone, it is very difficult to replace them. The Government clearly have the hospitality sector in their crosshairs, and clause 86 is just the latest salvo. This is no small corner of the economy. Some 3.5 million people are employed directly in the sector, which invests £7 billion a year, yet the industry is being punished by the Chancellor’s decisions and this clause. UKHospitality’s “#TaxedOut” campaign has highlighted the nearly 90,000 jobs lost in this sector. With unemployment now above 5%, young people in particular are paying the price. That is a consequence of the Chancellor’s damaging tax rises, which were supported by Labour Members. Higher alcohol duties, the jobs tax, energy bills and soaring business rates are layering cost on cost. It is little wonder that UKHospitality has called the Government’s approach a “hammer blow”.

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