In a major victory for The Workers Union and local communities across Britain, the Government has confirmed plans to review outdated licensing laws that have long restricted the hospitality sector. The move comes just weeks after The Workers Union’s Supporting The Great British Pub campaign event drew national attention to the plight of the nation’s pubs and their critical role in local life.
Back in August, The Workers Union called for urgent action to “reverse the decline of our local community hubs,” spotlighting the struggles many pubs have faced under the weight of restrictive rules, rising costs, and dwindling footfall. Today’s announcement by ministers signals that Westminster has listened.
It is understood that the Government’s review could lead to a bonfire of outdated licensing rules, addressing widespread concerns that some historic venues have been unfairly shuttered over issues such as noise complaints or advertising requirements.
A new era for the Great British pub
The Prime Minister described pubs and bars as “the beating heart of our communities,” pledging to “back them to thrive.” His comments underscore a renewed recognition of the economic and cultural importance of these establishments, which serve not only as social gathering places but also as vital employers and community anchors.
“This review is about cutting red tape, boosting footfall, and making it easier for venues to put on the kind of events that bring people together,” said Sir Keir. “When our locals do well, our economy does too.”
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle echoed that sentiment, noting that the Government’s approach balances support for small businesses with public safety. “This review will help us cut through the red tape that has held back our brilliant hospitality sector, giving them the freedom to flourish while keeping communities safe,” he said. “We’re determined to back small businesses and bring the buzz back to our high streets.”
A step forward for small business owners
The review follows findings from the Government’s Licensing Taskforce, which earlier this year recommended sweeping reforms. Among its key proposals was scrapping the requirement for pubs to advertise licence applications in local newspapers, a rule many consider outdated and costly.
According to the taskforce’s report, this requirement “serves no meaningful purpose other than to provide a revenue stream to companies operating local newspapers,” particularly as print readership continues to fall.
Other recommendations include raising the number of temporary event notices landlords can apply for — from 15 covering 21 days per year, to 25 covering 30 days — and simplifying permissions for outdoor trading, a vital step for venues that pivoted to alfresco service during the pandemic.
The Workers Union welcomes progress
The Workers Union has long argued that Britain’s pubs deserve practical support, not bureaucratic barriers. This Government action represents a welcome step in the right direction. By challenging outdated rules and restoring flexibility to local venues, ministers are helping to safeguard one of the UK’s most cherished traditions — the Great British pub.
A spokesperson for The Workers Union said:
“Our event aimed to ensure that the voices of workers and small business owners in the hospitality industry were heard. We are pleased that ministers have recognised the vital contribution pubs make to community life and the wider economy. This is a victory for common sense and for every publican striving to keep their doors open.”
Looking ahead
The call for evidence will now gather views from industry stakeholders, community groups, and members of the public. If implemented, these reforms could mark a turning point for thousands of venues struggling under outdated restrictions — and signal that the Government is serious about breathing new life into Britain’s high streets.
For the many workers who depend on the hospitality sector, this development represents more than just a policy shift. It’s a recognition that local pubs are essential to both the social fabric and economic wellbeing of communities across the UK.
