Politics · 7 August 2026
Downing Street defends standing in pubs after a London council suggests restrictions
Photo: UK Prime Minister (CC BY 4.0)
The prime minister's office says busy bars are a core part of British life and support thousands of jobs. Westminster City Council recently published draft licensing rules encouraging West End venues to swap standing areas for more table seating. Paul Swaddle, the local Conservative leader, insists there is no actual plan to ban standing completely when the public consultation ends on Sunday.
Reported by Sky News · How we write briefs