MPs call for clearer drink price displays in pubs

A parliamentary motion has urged the UK Government to require pubs and bars to display drinks prices clearly at the point of order. Supporters argue that rising pint prices make transparency increasingly important for consumers navigating the hospitality sector.

A parliamentary motion has called for compulsory, clearly visible price displays for alcoholic drinks in pubs and bars across the UK, amid growing concern over rising costs for consumers.

The proposal appears in Early Day Motion 3002, tabled on 19 March 2026 during the 2024 to 2026 parliamentary session. The measure would require all licensed premises to show the prices of drinks and other products in a position clearly visible from where customers place orders.

The motion argues that while consumer protection law already requires pricing information to be available, its presentation in pubs remains inconsistent. The level of visibility varies widely between venues despite expectations of transparency in other hospitality settings.

Rising pint prices sharpen the issue

Supporters of the proposal draw attention to the rising cost of beer in many parts of the country; a pint now commonly costs between £6 and £8.50 in some areas.

In that context, clearer price displays are described as increasingly important for customers wishing to compare venues before ordering. The motion states that greater visibility would help customers avoid unexpected costs when paying and allow easier comparison between pubs.

The document also suggests that improved price transparency would bring pubs into line with other hospitality businesses where price lists are routinely displayed.

Parliamentary backing so far

Early Day Motion 3002 was tabled by Peter Lamb, Labour MP for Crawley, who signed the motion on 19 March 2026. According to parliamentary records, the proposal has also been signed by Jim Shannon, Democratic Unionist Party MP for Strangford, who added his support on 23 March 2026.

As per the parliamentary record, the motion currently has two signatures and has not received any amendments.

Early Day Motions are used by MPs to draw attention to specific issues and gather support across the House of Commons. While they are rarely debated directly, they can influence discussion around potential policy changes.

Transparency and consumer confidence

The motion frames clearer price displays as a straightforward measure that could strengthen consumer confidence in the hospitality sector. Whether the proposal gains broader parliamentary support remains to be seen, but it is worth noting that the issue of fairness and transparency in the UK’s pub trade has reached government.

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