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Mayor Khan Granted Power to Overturn Pub Standing Restrictions

8/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Mayor Sadiq Khan will be given authority to overturn Westminster council licensing decisions restricting standing drinking in pubs.
The policy would require table service and create an “impact zone” halting new pubs in Soho, the West End and Victoria.
Downing Street said pubs are “British life” and is devolving powers to the mayor; council leader Paul Swaddle said there is no plan to ban standing drinking and called it “confusing.”

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Story summary

Mayor Sadiq Khan will be given authority to overturn Westminster council licensing decisions restricting standing drinking in pubs.
The policy would require table service and create an “impact zone” halting new pubs in Soho, the West End and Victoria.
Downing Street said pubs are “British life” and is devolving powers to the mayor; council leader Paul Swaddle said there is no plan to ban standing drinking and called it “confusing.”