WITHAM'S MP says the Government has a "difficult balancing act" to ensure pubs can stay open during the coronavirus pandemic.

Priti Patel met up with Victor Roome last week to see how his pub, The Square and Compasses in Fuller Street, Fairstead, has fared since reopening after lockdown.

The Home Secretary was given a tour of the site before sitting down to discuss business with Mr Roome.

Key to the discussions were how social distancing regulations are affecting his business.

Speaking after her visit, Ms Patel said: “There is no doubt that businesses in the hospitality sector are finding it particularly difficult to cope with the continuing restrictions.

"Obviously, the Government has to take into account both public safety and the needs of businesses that have to make money in order to survive.

"It is a difficult balancing act."

Mr Roome said: “I am very pleased that Priti listened to my concerns about the restrictions, particularly in regard to the 10pm curfew and the rate at which freehouses are being lost.

"We all have to do our bit in the current crisis but care needs to be taken at the top level to ensure that businesses like ours can and do survive in the long term."