Angela Rayner Criticized for Lack of Action on Iconic Thames Beer Garden

Angela Rayner, the Labour politician, has been criticized for her failure to act in a situation that threatens the Trafalgar Tavern, a famed beer garden along the River Thames. Despite the Labour party's pledges to mitigate red tape protecting pubs, a Labour-led council has mandated that the tavern reduce its outdoor seating capacity by approximately fifty percent. When questioned about whether she would utilize her authority as the Communities Secretary to intervene in this decision, the local government minister, Jim McMahon, suggested that it was probable the decision would be made independently of Ms. Rayner’s involvement.

The Trafalgar Tavern, often regarded as one of Britain’s finest pubs, has expressed that the council’s directive could potentially lead to significant job losses. The establishment has submitted an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate, which is anticipated to provide feedback by October. Generally, planning appeals are settled by inspectors without requiring ministerial approval; however, in cases with considerable regional or national significance, the Secretary of State has the authority to intervene. Despite this, it appears that the Deputy Prime Minister will allow the planning inspector to handle the pub’s appeal without her direct intervention.

Kevin Hollinrake, the Shadow Communities Secretary, lamented that Rayner could prevent the tavern’s predicament but seems to be deliberately choosing not to take action. He further noted that while Labour vocally advocates for reducing bureaucratic obstacles facing pubs, their actions suggest otherwise, with rising business rates and various legislations likely contributing to the decline of pubs nationwide. According to reports, Ms. Rayner still has the option to override the council's decision at any point before it is finalized by the Planning Inspectorate.