Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Starmer's Extended Pub Hours Plan Faces Backlash Amid Closures

10/10/2025

24 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Sir Keir Starmer's plan to extend pub hours drew landlords' criticism, described as a 'complete waste of time'.
Conservatives criticize the plan and urge action on licensing recommendations.
Andrew Griffith, Conservative shadow business secretary, calls for pubs' business rates relief.
Pubs face a crisis, with 209 closures in the first half of 2025 due to rising costs.

History

Historical Context

The UK's Licensing Act 2003 aimed to reduce binge drinking by allowing flexible opening hours for pubs, leading to a 20% increase in establishments. However, by early 2025, 209 pubs closed, prompting Sir Keir Starmer to propose extended hours. This highlights ongoing challenges in the hospitality sector, emphasizing the need for business rates relief and sustainable practices to support struggling venues.

1 of 2

Story summary

Sir Keir Starmer's plan to extend pub hours drew landlords' criticism, described as a 'complete waste of time'.
Conservatives criticize the plan and urge action on licensing recommendations.
Andrew Griffith, Conservative shadow business secretary, calls for pubs' business rates relief.
Pubs face a crisis, with 209 closures in the first half of 2025 due to rising costs.

1 / 2