West Lancashire MP Rosie Cooper has welcomed the Government's announcement to help pubs struggling to stay open.

'Pubs Minister' John Healey MP has announced a 12 point action plan to give practical support for community pubs across the country. Backed by £4 million of government funding, the new help will include funding for business support to make pubs more successful and help communities buy into pubs. Additionally, the plan would give support for struggling membership clubs, see the slashing of "beer ties", and the conclusion of a consultation to cut the requirement of music licences in certain venues.

Rosie Cooper MP said: "This is really great news for any struggling pub in West Lancashire. As many people know, they provide a valuable service to our communities. However, we are seeing the collapse of an institution and community gathering spot that has been enshrined into our culture. This new announcement is means that the Government is listening and providing a way for pubs to stay in afloat.

"Pubs have also been at the heart of British business. In these tough times, we need to make sure that we are doing all we can to support small businesses and encourage people to take on new entrepreneurial enterprises as well."

Pubs Minister, John Healey MP said: "This package of tough, practical measures from our Labour government aims to put some real support behind our community pubs, giving publicans more support to diversify and their punters more choice. We need and can do more to support our pubs which can be the heart of a local community."

"Today's measures are a much needed shot in the arm for publicans in these tough times. They will make it easier to diversify lower costs and cut red tape when it comes to branching out. It is also a boost for local communities, giving them a greater stake in the future of their local pubs often so important in bringing people together."

"Through our government's action, pubs will receive specialist business support with a direct line through 'Pub is the Hub' for a wide range of business advice and help that is readily available."