Television personality and publican Jeremy Clarkson has launched a fierce critique of Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour government, blaming them for creating a 'pretty terrible' business environment for Britain's pubs.
A Perfect Storm for Pubs
In his latest column for The Times, Clarkson detailed the financial pressures facing his own establishment, The Farmer's Dog in West Oxfordshire, which he opened in April 2024. He highlighted a steep proposed increase in its rateable value from £27,250 to £55,000, coupled with a national insurance rise adding £42,000 annually to his wage bill.
Clarkson argued that passing these costs to customers is nearly impossible, especially as patrons face their own soaring energy bills. He saved particular scorn for government plans to lower the drink-drive limit, asking: 'how can you pass this on to customers when they have a £2 billion gas bill to pay and they can’t get there anyway because of the new drink driving rules.'
'They Actively Hate Business'
The former Top Gear host went beyond mere criticism of policy, suggesting a deeper ideological rift. He claimed the problem is not just that Starmer and his frontbench lack business experience, but that 'they actively hate it'.
To protest the government's approach, Clarkson has instituted a ban on all Labour MPs from his pub, a mandate he reiterated to The Sun. This places the Prime Minister and his colleagues on a list of over 400 banned individuals, which famously includes Clarkson's former co-host James May.
A Small Planning Victory
Amid the gloom, Clarkson did secure a minor win for his business. After a year-long application process, West Oxfordshire District Council granted permission in January 2026 for hard surfacing to be laid in both car parks at The Farmer's Dog, allowing for an expansion.
However, this improvement will not be enjoyed by the current political leadership. Clarkson's stance remains firmly opposed, framing the challenges faced by his pub and the wider hospitality industry as a direct result of government policy under Keir Starmer.
