United Kingdom
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has denied a request to meet petitioners who have raised more than 200,000 signatures to urge the government to take on the role of hospitality minister, according to a report on the Boutique Hotelier's website on Thursday January 14th to create in parliament.
During PMQs on the Commons on Wednesday January 13th, Labor MP from Newcastle North, Catherine McKinnell urged Johnson to specifically meet with petitioners calling for a hospitality minister to understand the real challenges they face face, and the desperate need for a proper voice in government.
McKinnell turned to the Prime Minister vis Zoom and said, “We currently have a petition in Parliament and hospitality is a major employer in this country, not to mention the heart and soul of many communities, and they have suffered more than most Pandemic."
While admitting that things are difficult for the industry, he stated that enough has been done and said, “It is right to identify the problems facing the hospitality industry, they have been through a difficult time but we are doing everything we can to they support you. Myself, the Business Secretary and the Chancellor meet regularly with people in the sector, and the recent grant increase was especially for them, in addition to vacation, CBILS and more.
“The best thing for the industry is that we are working together to fight the virus with disciplined measures. I am sure this is best for you. "
This is a blow to the hospitality industry and its supply chain, which includes many laundries, which were hoping for a more positive outcome for hospitality after a debate in the House of Commons on Monday (Jan. 11) that showed a wave of bipartisan support.
