Ministers have faced criticism for not extending the rules that allow UK pubs to sell takeaway pints beyond the end of next month.
In July 2020, pubs were given the option to sell takeaway alcohol without having to seek permission from their local councils, as part of efforts to control the spread of coronavirus. This measure enabled landlords to sell alcohol and keep their businesses afloat during lockdowns. Although the rules were extended twice, the Home Office has announced that they will expire on 30 September.
Pubs that wish to continue serving takeaway alcohol will now need to obtain permission from their local councils.
The decision has been criticized by the British Beer and Pub Association. Emma McClarkin, the group’s chief executive, expressed disappointment, stating that this simple change has allowed pubs to offer takeaway options and host a greater range of events for their communities in recent years.
Defending their decision, the Home Office mentioned conducting a consultation, which received feedback indicating a majority preference for reverting to the pre-Covid rules.
According to UK Hospitality, one year after the introduction of these rules, nearly 10,000 licensed premises had permanently closed, resulting in the sector losing over £87 billion in sales due to the pandemic.
The rules were implemented in 2020 as part of the first ever hospitality strategy to support the reopening and resilience of the sector, coinciding with the permanent introduction of pavement licenses to allow more customers to dine outdoors.