“All Labour MPs Banned Now!” – Clarkson Joins Nationwide Pub Revolt as Hundreds Bar Politicians Over Tax Squeeze

Pub owner Jeremy Clarkson has intensified his criticism of the Government after announcing that all Labour MPs are now barred from his Oxfordshire pub in protest at rising business taxes.

The Clarkson’s Farm star, who owns The Farmer’s Dog near Burford, said he had extended his existing ban on Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to include the entire Parliamentary Labour Party. The move follows Labour’s recent Budget measures, which Mr Clarkson believes are placing unsustainable pressure on small businesses, including rural pubs.

Mr Clarkson, 65, said Sir Keir had already been banned from the pub when it opened last year, adding that recent changes had only reinforced his stance.

“I was well ahead of the curve when I banned Starmer,” he said. “Every Labour MP is barred now.”

He pointed to a sharp rise in business rates at The Farmer’s Dog as a key reason for the decision.

“Our annual business rates have gone up astronomically from something like £28,000 to well over £50,000,” Mr Clarkson said. “It is a disgrace.”

His comments come amid growing concern across the hospitality sector, with thousands of small pubs expected to be affected by changes to business rates. It was reported earlier this week that almost 5,000 pubs could be hit by business rates for the first time, raising fears about the long-term viability of many independent venues.

In response, a number of landlords have joined the Taxed Out campaign, which includes symbolic bans on Labour MPs entering their pubs. Some participating venues have displayed beer mats and signage stating “No Labour MPs” as a form of protest.

The controversy centres on the Government’s decision to replace temporary Covid-era business rates relief with a new system. Under the changes, a typical pub could face an increase of £6,000 or more in annual rates, according to industry estimates.

Business Minister Kate Dearden acknowledged the pressure facing the sector, saying the Government was aware of the concerns being raised by landlords.

“I know it’s tough for the sector,” she said. “But I want to work with you to understand these impacts.”

Despite the criticism, Government sources said £400 million would be made available over the next three years to support pubs and other hospitality businesses.

However, industry leaders have warned that further action is needed. UK Hospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls called on ministers to reconsider the changes, arguing that reform could protect both jobs and local communities.

“That would save jobs, save high streets and save our pubs,” she said.

Mr Clarkson’s latest comments add to his growing public opposition to Government policy affecting farming and rural businesses, areas he has repeatedly argued are being overlooked by decision-makers in Westminster.