Plan to limit ‘vertical drinking’ decried by pub landlords and UK politicians

Westminster City Council in London has proposed a draft policy to limit "vertical drinking," which has drawn criticism from pub landlords and prominent politicians, including London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The proposal aims to reduce noise and disorderly behavior by encouraging table service over standing room at bars, particularly in the West End's nightlife district. Pub owners argue this would harm their businesses, as they rely on standing patrons for revenue. The council leader clarified the intent is safety, not banning standing, and the policy is still open for public comment. Khan indicated he may review the policy using new powers, emphasizing the importance of London's hospitality sector.

The UK government, via Downing Street, has pledged to prevent local councils from restricting standing while drinking in pubs or ordering at the bar. This response follows a Guardian report that Westminster Council's draft licensing policy proposed banning "vertical drinking" and mandating table service, with last orders at 10 pm in nightlife areas like Soho. A Downing Street spokesperson stated that busy pubs are "British life" and vital for jobs, and that the government will grant new powers to the Mayor of London to override such council decisions. Mayor Sadiq Khan supports this, criticizing restrictive policies. Westminster Council's leader denied a ban on standing, but the draft policy does suggest discouraging standing and promoting table service.