A GLASGOW MSP has warned there will be a "devastating" effect on tenanted pubs in Scotland unless action is taken to reform the relationship between lease holders and their powerful landlords.
The claim was made by Glasgow Provan MSP Paul Martin, who has lodged a business motion in the Scottish Parliament calling for a statutory code of practice to be introduced to ensure a fairer relationship between pubcos and tenants.
The motion, which has achieved cross party support, comes after MPs voted to introduce a code south of the Border following an amendment to the Small Business, Enterprise and Employment Bill.
That Bill has also paved the way for tenants to seek open market rent reviews and buy beer "out of two", leading to calls for similar changes in Scotland.
Mr Martin said: "Now that the rent-tied model has been radically overhauled in England and Wales, investors and pubcos will now be turning their attention to the industry in Scotland.
"If we don't legislate to protect rent-tied tenants, then the impact on pubs north of the Border will be devastating.
"I have heard from brewers, licensed trade organisations, tenants and unions who are all eager to see a statutory code of practice for pub companies put in place to protect hard-working licensees.
"If Scotland had its own adjudicator, it would also allow pub tenants to offer a wider selection of beers, which would promote market competition."
John Gilligan of Tennent Caledonian Breweries said: "This is a massive step in the right direction and we wholeheartedly welcome the motion. Unless the Scottish Government moves to protect our licensed trade in the same way afforded to England and Wales, the impact will be catastrophic.
"Meetings with political representatives have been very encouraging so far, so we are hopeful that we can moved forward at pace."
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