Licensing rules on hospitality off sales extended until 2025
The rules had been due to expire on 30 September, but will now continue until March 2025 following an intervention by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
The news was first reported over the weekend by The Sun, with Sunak later confirming the decision on X, formerly Twitter.
He said: “I've heard the British pub industry loud and clear - takeaway pints are a boost for their businesses and our economy.”
The rules, which were granted in July 2020, allow hospitality venues to sell takeaway alcohol without having to apply to their local council for permission.
They are also allowed to sell alcohol on the street within the area covered by any pavement licence they may have.
Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, said the decision to halt the ban on hospitality off sales was ‘really welcome’.
“The PM will always back British pubs,” she said.
“He’s listened to the industry and heard them loud and clear — now is not the time to call last orders on takeaway pints & boost to business that they bring.”
