Local MP stands up for hospitality sector facing ‘sky-high energy bills’.

Earlier this week, during Questions to the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero, Samantha Dixon MP for the City of Chester highlighted the struggles facing the hospitality sector in Chester.

Asking the Minister in the House of Commons, Samantha said:

“The hospitality sector is very important to Chester. Talking to the Chester Business Improvement District this morning, and following comments from chef Gary Usher, it is clear that the damaging impact of sky-high energy bills is still felt extremely significantly. What hope can the Minister offer hard-pressed restaurateurs in Chester and across the country?”

In response to the question, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Minister for Affordability and Skills), Amanda Solloway MP said:

“I am aware of the challenges facing all the industry. I have ongoing talks with UKHospitality and other groups. There are things that we can do, such as blend and extend, and we are looking at the brokers, and ensuring that third-party intermediaries are doing their jobs correctly.”

The plight facing many businesses in the hospitality sector has been highlighted previously by award-winning chef Gary Usher who has built up a successful business including Sticky Walnut in Hoole and the White Horse pub in Churton.

Commenting on the issue Samantha added:

“Every family and business in Britain are paying the price of this Government’s failed energy policy which has left Britain as the worst hit country in Western Europe during the current energy crisis.

“The hospitality sector is crucial for Chester’s local economy, and I look forward to continuing to work with businesses, the BID and other stakeholders to highlight the real struggles facing this energy intensive industry”