Pub Companies

Debate between Baroness Ritchie of Downpatrick and Vince Cable

Tuesday 21st January 2014 Commons Chamber

[Vince Cable]

Just about every aspect of the fiscal and economic implications for this industry has been exhaustively reviewed, and I will try to find out the answer to that specific question from the various studies that have been done. I do not think that we have specifically analysed the interaction between beers and curries, but I am sure that there is a positive correlation.

[Ms Margaret Ritchie (South Down) (SDLP)]

Will the Secretary of State urge his colleague, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, to give full consideration in advance of the Budget to a reduction in VAT on the hospitality industry, as it is urgently required not only in Northern Ireland but by the British Hospitality Association?

[Vince Cable]

I have met the hospitality industry and it has set out its case for a VAT reduction. As the hon. Lady will know, I do not make the decisions on what goes into the Budget on tax measures. I am sure that there are many other claims on the Budget in terms of tax reduction and spending. Certainly, the hospitality industry has been very effective in making its case.

Royal Mail

Debate between Baroness Ritchie of Downpatrick and Vince Cable

Wednesday 10th July 2013 Commons Chamber

[Vince Cable]

The legislation provided for at least 10% and we are proposing a 10% free share offer. Postal workers will have priority if there is excessive demand, and stakes could be built up considerably beyond 10%.

[Ms Margaret Ritchie (South Down) (SDLP)]

What long-term decisions will the Secretary of State take, based on only three-year assurances about jobs and services?

[Vince Cable]

They were not my assurances; they were given by the employer, which is Royal Mail. A three-year agreement is perhaps rather long for much of industry, and the work force will have to negotiate again with its future employers.