In a bid to save the struggling hospitality sector from further economic turmoil, the government has decided to maintain the Covid licensing rules that allow pubs in England and Wales to offer

takeaway drinks. Originally implemented in 2020 during the pandemic, these rules permitted pubs to serve customers through hatches when lockdowns were enforced. Although the rules were set to expire on September 30, reliable sources indicate that the government has chosen to extend them further.

It is believed that Prime Minister Rishi Sunak played a crucial role in ensuring the continuation of the existing licensing rule. The Sun newspaper, which initially broke the story, reported that the Prime Minister had attentively heeded the industry's concerns.

The rule change, introduced in July 2020, granted pubs without off-premises licenses the ability to sell takeaway alcohol without needing approval from local councils. This modification enabled them to operate amidst Covid-related restrictions.

Emma McClarkin, the Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, representing more than 20,000 pubs, expressed her approval of the decision. She emphasized that the Prime Minister must recognize the ongoing challenges faced by these businesses and highlighted that the rule was introduced to support pubs during difficult times.

Martin McTague, National Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses, regarded the decision as a valuable opportunity for pubs to generate additional revenue to counteract rising costs.

Originally set to end in September, the rule's expiration would have necessitated pubs wishing to continue offering takeaway drinks to undergo the lengthy application and approval procedures imposed by local councils. Despite concerns raised by pub groups, the Home Office had previously solicited feedback from councils, residents' groups, and drinks retailers, revealing that the majority of respondents favored returning to pre-pandemic rules. However, the recent decision to uphold the current rules reflects the government's recognition of the ongoing challenges faced by the pub industry. Photo by  Ian T, Wikimedia commons.