Tim Martin has previously been a vocal supporter of Brexit
The chief executive of JD Wetherspoon has called on Boris Johnson to implement a visa scheme for workers in the European Union as restaurants and pubs across the UK are struggling to bring in staff as lockdowns ease.
Tim Martin, who was previously outspoken in his support for Brexit, said the UK prime minister should act to reduce the pressure on businesses, arguing that nations closer to the UK in terms of geography could be favoured.
Owners of restaurants and pubs have been forced to close their sites during peak trading hours due to a shortage of workers.
The JD Wetherspoon boss told the Daily Telegraph: “The UK has a low birth rate. A reasonably liberal immigration system controlled by those we have elected, as distinct from the EU system, would be a plus for the economy and the country.”
“America, Australia and Singapore have benefited for many decades from this approach. Immigration combined with democracy works.”
Tim Martin has previously been critical of the government’s guidelines and spoke of the need for sensible and consistent policies moving forward.
JD Wetherspoon has also set its eyes on expanding as many hospitality and service sector businesses were forced to close down during the pandemic.
This allowed the company to expand its estate. As a result, it may emerge from the pandemic in a stronger position.