The Government has appointed the first ever minister for pubs in a bid to help stem the wave of pub closures. Wentworth MP John Healey has been given the task of heading up a strategy to help save Britain's pubs.

In addition, the new Minister has promised to deliver a package of measures to help pubs "within weeks". He will lead a team of five ministers to develop a plan to help stem the tide of pub closures.

In a statement, a spokesman said: "Ministers recognise the important role pubs can play in maintaining community life and there is concern across Government about the number of community pubs that have been forced to close during the recession.

"Ministers are determined to tackle this and give them a helping hand during these tough economic times.

"Government action cannot sustain pubs that are fundamentally unviable but it is right to do everything possible to support those pubs that play an important community role.

"This could include any necessary revisions to planning policy that allow pubs to offer extra services and support for community ownership."

Healey said: "Pubs are often at the heart of community life. And they are important meeting places for many people.

"While we can't stop every pub from closing it's right we do everything possible to back them. But they need help now so I am determined to have a deal on the table with a package of practical help in the next few weeks."