Almost a month after a selection of cross-party MPs backed a motion to appoint a dedicated minister for the hospitality sector, peers grilled the Government on its plans to further support the industry.
Following a 90-minute debate on 11 January, the issue of appointing a dedicated minister for the hospitality sector reached the House of Lords on 3 February.
The issue initially made Parliament’s agenda after more than 200,000 sector supporters – including celebrity chef and pub operator Tom Kerridge, James Martin and Angela Hartnett – signed a petition.
The #SeatAtTheTable campaign highlighted the UK hospitality industry is responsible for about 3m jobs and generates £130bn in activity, resulting in £38bn in taxation but, unlike the arts or sports, does not have a dedicated minister.