Andy Burnham government confirms new pub rule won't come into force after all

NewsMidlands NewsPubs in BirminghamThe Labour Party has spoken out08:03, 07 Aug 2026Andy Burnham's government has vowed to confiscate powers from local councils who try to restrict customers from standing up while drinking in pubs or ordering at the bar.‌It comes after Westminster council in central London recommended not allowing “vertical drinking” or ordering at the bar in its new draft licensing policy.‌The Labour Party said: “Busy pubs full of people talking to each other is not a public nuisance, it is British life, and it is thousands of jobs. The government is devolving new licensing powers to the mayor [of London] to help support pubs and nightlife. Soho did not become world famous by taking last orders early, switching the lights off at 10 o’clock.‌READ MORE Sick pay and parental