William Powell Pledges Liberal Democrat Support for Local Business as Welsh Pubs Reopen

William Powell, Welsh Liberal Democrat Senedd candidate for Brecon & Radnorshire, has welcomed today’s (Monday 26^th April) outdoor reopening of pubs, restaurants, and some other catering & hospitality businesses, and promised that he and his party will be a voice for small business in the next Senedd Cymru/Welsh Parliament.  

Key policy commitments in the Welsh Liberal Democrat manifesto for the 2021 Senedd Election include a freeze on Business Rates for the next five years and a £500 million fund for investment in town centres and high streets based on the priorities identified by local business leaders and organisations.

Commenting, William Powell said:

“In the past few days, I have met with many local pub landlords and brewers, such as Simon Buckley, owner of the Evans Evans Brewery in Llandeilo and Peter Saxon of The Britannia Inn in Crickhowell. They are all very excited about today’s re-opening and finally being able to welcome customers back to enjoy outstanding food and drink.

“Hospitality and catering contributes hugely to our rural economy and the community life of our towns and villages. It is crucially important that they are supported to survive and thrive after a devastating 18 months in which the global COVID-19 pandemic and the public health measures taken by the Welsh and UK Governments in response have led to a dramatic fall in trade.

“As pubs and restaurants reopen after the lockdown and with Welsh voters choosing a new Parliament on 6^th May, it is vital that we do not squander this chance for renewal.

“That is why supporting small and local businesses is central to the Welsh Liberal Democrat agenda.

“I pledge that, if elected, my party and I, will be firm and vocal allies to the pub, restaurant, and café sectors and all supply chain small businesses. We will stand up for their interests and promote investment in business innovation and job creation in this vital area of business."

DIWEDD / END