New rules for pubs in England - but landlords are sceptical of them

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New pub rules in England have led to scepticism among landlords. The p ub later-hours plan will not offset costs and wider difficulties, say landlords.

The pub sector is sceptical over government licensing proposals given ‘ever-rising costs’ and ‘reduced consumer spend’. Under the Labour Party government, pubs will be allowed to open later in a move intended to cut “red tape”.

But Tim Martin, the founder and chair of the Wetherspoon’s pub chain, called the plan a “moderate plus at best”. “Pubs would probably prefer to have the choice as to their hours but due to economic pressures, often stemming from high taxes and costs, the pub industry as a whole has tended to reduce hours or close permanently in recent years,” he said.

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