Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Pubs can serve takeaway pints from 12 April, Downing Steet confirms

Move will allow 60% of England’s pubs which do not have outdoor space to also reopen

Sam Hancock
Thursday 25 February 2021 15:39 GMT
Comments
Grant Schapps becomes first minister to receive Covid-19 vaccine

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Downing Street has said pubs can serve takeaway drinks from 12 April in a move the hospitality industry hailed as “vital” to the sector’s survival.

Boris Johnson’s spokesman confirmed on Thursday that people in England would be allowed to buy takeaway alcohol once beer gardens reopen, which is scheduled to take place in phase two of the roadmap out of lockdown.

It means pubs that do not have outdoor seating areas – which, according to UKHospitality, accounts for almost 60 per cent of England’s drinking venues – can at least partially reopen and resume sales.

“Outdoor hospitality is permitted so I believe it would be the case that takeaway alcohol will be permitted,” the PM’s spokesman said.

Buying a takeaway alcoholic drink from pubs, restaurants and bars was made illegal going into the third national lockdown, despite being allowed under previous restrictions.

Kate Nicholls, UKHospitality chief executive, said the clarity on the rule from 12 April was “great news for pubs”.

“Allowing takeaway alcohol will be a vital lifeline for many and could be the difference between survival and failure,” she added.

But Society of Independent Brewers chief executive James Calder questioned why the government was allowing sales of takeaway alcohol earlier.

He asked: “If two individuals are allowed to meet for a coffee from 8 March, why not for a takeaway pint?” he asked.

Indoor areas of pubs and restaurants will not be open before 17 May.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in