CAMRA has written to the Prime Minister seeking the appointment of a Minister for Pubs, H&C has learned. Pubs play a vital role in the economic, social and cultural life of the nation yet are closing at a rate of six a day.

CAMRA has highlighted that there are many exceptionally well qualified candidates for such a post, including Greg Mulholland MP and Nigel Evans MP. Greg Mulholland MP is the winner of CAMRA's 2010 Parliamentarian of the Year Award and Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Save The Pubs Group. Nigel Evans MP is Vice Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Beer Group and co-chaired the Group's Community Pub Inquiry.

Mike Benner, CAMRA Chief Executive said: "It is a positive sign that the new Prime Minister chose to enjoy a pint in his local community pub on Election Night. CAMRA hopes that the new Government will include a Minister for Pubs tasked with safeguarding the future of the nation's pubs.

"Community pubs have long suffered through the absence of a single Minister to speak up for pubs. There are no fewer than six Government Departments whose actions have a major impact on community pubs and before the appointment of a Minister for Pubs by the last Government there was no joined up approach on pub matters. A dedicated Minister for Pubs is vital to ensure that the fate of community pubs does not fall through the gaps between these Government Departments.

"CAMRA will be asking its 110,000 members to contact the Prime Minister to support the reappointment of a Minister for Pubs."