Pub landlords and hospitality chiefs have dismissed Sir Keir Starmer’s plan to allow pubs to stay open later, branding the idea “a complete waste of time” amid warnings that extended trading hours will only increase costs and staffing pressures.
The Prime Minister unveiled the proposal on Wednesday as part of a fast-track review of licensing laws, aimed at boosting footfall and cutting red tape for the struggling hospitality sector. He said the move would “allow pubs to thrive” and help revitalise high streets and local economies.
“Pubs and bars are the beating heart of our communities. Under our Plan for Change, we’re backing them to thrive,” Starmer said on Thursday.
However, publicans and trade bodies said the policy failed to address the real problems facing the industry — including Labour’s tax rises and surging operating costs.
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