Publicans have given a mixed response to Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s proposal to relax pub licensing laws, saying that while the move could boost trade for some, it will not address the wider cost pressures facing the sector.
This week, Sir Keir announced a fast-track review aimed at modernising Britain’s licensing rules, with the goal of allowing pubs and bars to stay open later and host more events.
He said the changes were designed to “cut red tape, boost footfall and make it easier for venues to put on the kind of events that bring people together.”
The government said the review was part of its “Plan for Change,” intended to help hospitality businesses recover after years of rising costs and changing customer habits.
However, many landlords remain sceptical about whether longer opening hours will make a real difference to their bottom line.
Clive Watson, chief executive of the City Pub Company, which runs 50 pubs across the UK, described the plan as “total nonsense.” He said:
“It will increase staffing costs and staff will have to travel home late at night.”
Another local publican, who asked not to be named, spoke about the strain small pubs are under.
“I’ve already had to let go of two members of staff because of higher NI and rising costs. My wife and I are now working extra shifts just to keep the doors open. Longer hours won’t save us, we need policies that help the economy grow and reduce red tape.”
Steve Alton, chief executive of the British Institute of Innkeeping (BII), said that while the review could help late-night venues, most pubs would see limited benefits.
“Whilst some pubs will benefit, particularly those in the late-night sector, for the majority of our members the impact will be limited,” he said.
Others in the trade have noted that drinking habits have shifted since the pandemic, with more customers heading home earlier. Phil Thorley, of Thorley Taverns, said:
“For a vast majority, people are drinking earlier, not later. Six pm drinking is the new 9pm since Covid.”
Industry figures have also pointed to higher wage and tax costs as key challenges. The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) estimates that recent National Insurance and minimum wage increases have added an average of £14,000 a year to each pub’s running costs.
In response, a government spokesperson said the review was about giving landlords more options, not obligations.
“Outdated licensing rules and red tape have been holding back pubs and bars for years. This is about giving landlords greater freedom and flexibility. None will be forced to open late,” the spokesperson said.
“Our review will boost trade and make it easier for venues to put on the kind of events that bring people together and grow the economy.”
The government’s consultation is expected to run for four weeks, during which landlords, residents and councils will be invited to share their views.
While some in the industry see promise in the changes, others believe more direct financial support is needed if pubs are to survive the pressures of rising costs and changing customer habits.
Are you a pub landlord or work in the hospitality trade? We’d like to hear your thoughts on the proposed changes. Please email us or write your thoughts in the comments.
