NATIONAL PUB DAY

That this House welcomes the first ever National Pub Day on 4 April 2009; applauds Justice for Licensees and the Save the Great British Pub campaign for this initiative; believes that the British pub is an important part of UK's history and heritage and a community focus for social, sporting and charitable activity; further believes that the public house provides a controlled and sociable drinking environment which encourages responsible drinking; recognises that pubs are currently facing difficult circumstances and require support; believes that more should be done to support and protect pubs and give more power to communities to protect them; and hopes that the first National Pub Day will receive widespread support and become an annual opportunity for celebrating the British pub which is a wonderful and unique institution and something that hon. Members should cherish and celebrate and raise a toast to on 4 April.