Boost for drinkers as beloved Covid rule extended for another year

RULES introduced in the pandemic letting pubs sell takeaway pints have been extended for another year.

Many pubs have been allowed for years to sell beer in sealed containers, but during lockdowns they could also serve take-outs in plastic glasses.

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The move — introduced as a lifeline for struggling pubs and eateries — also meant restaurants that were not licenced to serve takeaway booze were able to include it with delivery orders.

The rules were due to expire on September 30. But following a successful lobbying campaign by trade bodies, the Home Office pushed the deadline back to September 2023.

Kate Nicholls, of campaigners UK Hospitality, said: “This decision is the right one and hugely significant.

“If this had lapsed, it would have caused further problems for many hundreds of hospitality businesses already struggling to survive.”

She added: “Persistent lobbying has convinced Government that deregulation measures such as this can help businesses at what is a critical time in their efforts to stay afloat.

“This will benefit those hospitality businesses that have successfully evolved operating models to incorporate outdoor sales and allow them to continue to do so.”

Drinkers raised a toast too.

Annie Brown tweeted: “I love going for takeaway pints now.

“It’s so much fun and well deserved after all we’ve been through.”

But Greg Mulholland, of the Campaign for Pubs called for stronger measures.

He said: “Instead of peripheral issues, the Government needs to understand pubs are still recovering from the huge loss of trade over the last two years and need proper support such as a business rates review and an energy bill cap.”