‘Show the price of a pint’: transparency push gains traction in Westminster
An early day motion in Parliament has called for more visible pricing in pubs and bars across the UK. The proposal reflects rising concern over the cost of a pint and the uneven way prices are displayed to customers.
A new parliamentary proposal is quietly drawing attention within the drinks trade. Early Day Motion 3002, tabled last week, asks that pubs and bars make the price of drinks clearly visible at the point of order.
The motion, introduced by Peter Lamb and supported by Jim Shannon, argues that while consumer protection law already requires pricing information to be available, its presentation remains inconsistent across licensed premises. According to the text of the motion, this lack of uniformity leaves customers vulnerable to uncertainty at the bar.
It has, at the time of writing, attracted only two signatures and no amendments, though its modest beginnings do not preclude broader discussion.
The rising cost of a pint
Central to the argument is the price itself. The motion states that a pint in many areas now costs between £6 and £8.50, a range that places pressure on both perception and expectation. For an industry that relies heavily on repeat custom, the question of trust is vital.
Partner Content
The proposal also draws a comparison with other parts of hospitality, where menus and price lists are routinely displayed. In contrast, some pubs continue to rely on less visible pricing, whether on pump clips or printed menus.
According to the motion, pricing should be displayed “in a position clearly visible from where customers place orders”, a formulation that leaves room for interpretation while setting a clear expectation.
Industry response and advocacy
The Campaign for Real Ale has previously backed the proposal, urging pubgoers to contact their MPs in support.
For operators, the implications may extend beyond compliance; more prominent pricing could influence menu design and the delicate balance of upselling, particularly in a climate where margins are tight and customer sensitivity to price is acute.
Related news
Breaking through to government: solutions, stats and singing from the same song-sheet
Australia shocked as government slashes wine tourism budget
US Government sets deadline for using synthetic red dye in drinks
