Almost 50 per cent of people in Wales point the finger at authorities for the loss of local pubs, according to findings from the Long Live the Local initiative and the research group More in Common.

The study discovered that 48 per cent of individuals attribute responsibility for pub closures to either national or local government bodies.

Emma McClarkin, who leads the Welsh Beer and Pub Association, explained that despite recent government assistance and cross-party parliamentary support for pubs and breweries, constituents feel more action remains necessary.

She noted that pubs form the heart of communities, generate employment, and with 250,000 signing the Long Live the Local petition backing those working in the trade—including thousands across Wales—their significance is clear. People are calling for a tax framework that maintains competitiveness while acknowledging pubs as vital gathering places.

The polling showed 32 per cent of those surveyed thought adjusting business rates would offer the best protection for pubs.

Despite the Budget reversal in January regarding pubs, closures persist at a rate of one establishment daily across England and Wales, with the UK losing 2,000 pubs since 2020, according to the British Beer and Pub Association.

MP engagement seems limited, with only 10 per cent of voters reporting their representative had advocated for the sector, and just 6 per cent feeling adequate backing had been provided.

Luke Tryl, executive director at More in Common, said the polling showed clear public sentiment: pubs matter deeply to communities and government is not doing enough to preserve them. Over half of voters hold national or local authorities accountable for closures and want greater political advocacy at every level.