Pubs don’t deserve particular measures | Pubs

Simon Jenkins leaves one or two unanswered questions in his plea for state assist with saving pubs (Here’s a political lesson progressives must be taught, and quick: British pubs are essential, 5 February).

Why pubs and never wool outlets? Or stationery outlets or greasy spoon cafes? Ought to teetotallers be anticipated to donate in the direction of conserving open the doorways of locations they’re unlikely to go to? And what in regards to the jackpot query? Why are so many individuals eschewing pubs? And are they actually the haven of heavenly camaraderie he depicts? Most likely within the effectively‑heeled villages of posh Oxfordshire, however within the grim nameless edifices of downtown Grimsville it’s a special story.

Sure, governments have been bleeding small retailers on the excessive avenue dry for many years. However to single out the pub and weave an online of bonhomie and luxury round it’s a fairytale. They’re companies and want to simply accept that in the event that they wish to hold buying and selling, they should work out how finest they’ll do it. Not anticipate particular therapy. Public cash for the boozer? Who’d drink to that?Michael NewmanShefford, Bedfordshire

Maybe Simon Jenkins ought to get out extra. His nostalgic view of the pub because the social centre of a group that deserves authorities help performs to the Reform UK playbook. Has he not heard of group centres, for instance?

Only a few pubs immediately are really impartial. Subsidising pubs means subsidising the main breweries. They’re the basis trigger why pubs are an endangered species. Whether or not via direct possession or managed leases, breweries have been squeezing landlords dry for years.John WhitleyMilford on Sea, Hampshire

Simon Jenkins means that “The church pub ought to turn into the structure of a united group”. Within the center ages the customized of church ales served simply this objective, bringing the group collectively to have fun and fundraise, with meals, dancing and home-brewed ales. This was dropped at an finish by the Reformation, however maybe an enterprising cleric in a group bereft of its pub may revive the customized.Pamela EllisYork

Have an opinion on something you’ve learn within the Guardian immediately? Please electronic mail us your letter and it will likely be thought of for publication in our letters part.