Thu, 09 Oct 2025

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 Pubs could stay open longer under licensing reforms

Changes to licensing rules could see relaxed rules around live music and serving food outside.

* Pubs and bars in England and Wales may see extended opening hours
* Review aims to "remove unnecessary barriers" and boost footfall to support economic growth
* Call for evidence will focus on nine key recommendations, including: + Streamlining on-trade alcohol licensing + Cutting the cost of licensing + Extending business rates relief + Cutting alcohol duty on draught pints + Removing local newspaper advertising requirement + Increasing temporary event notices + Simpler rules for trading in outdoor areas
* Critics warn that relaxing rules around alcohol would lead to more antisocial behavior
* Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer says the review is about "cutting red tape" and backing pubs to thrive
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