MPs are set to debate the #SeatAtTheTable petition, which was originally launched back in October by Chef and Restaurant Magazine editor Claire Bosi, later today (11 January).
Spearheaded by hotelier Robin Hutson and chef Angela Hartnett, the campaign calls for a dedicated Minister for Hospitality to be created ‘for the current, and successive governments’.
Other high-profile industry figures backing the campaign include Jamie Oliver, Tom Kerridge and Fred Sirieix.
“This is about helping us to help the country get back on its feet,” said Hartnett.
“We can’t wait to welcome people back to our bars and dining rooms but we need the Government to protect our businesses and these jobs to ensure we are there when this is over.
“The pandemic has shown hospitality is a major economic and social force and we need proper representation in government to fight our corner.
"Industries like manufacturing, retail and aviation all have a dedicated minister and we need that seat at the table. It’s wrong that we don’t have our own minister given the size and scale of hospitality and how important it is in providing jobs and public funding for vital services.
“Now the vaccine is here, we want to help the country come roaring back and also to get our venues open, to do what we do best and look after people and give them a great time.
"And in doing so, this industry will generate millions in tax to repair the public coffers and pay for vital services like the NHS and social care. But we need help to do it.”
The Government is expected to respond to the petition following today's debate, which will take place at 4:30pm.
To view the petition, click here.