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Have your say: Government seeks pub operators’ views on licensing reform
The UK Government has announced a four-week review of alcohol and entertainment licensing rules, inviting feedback from pub operators, landlords and local communities on how to simplify outdated regulations affecting venues across England and Wales.
The fast-track review, led by the Department for Business and Trade, forms part of the Government’s Plan for Change and aims to identify ways to reduce bureaucracy for hospitality businesses while maintaining public safety and community standards.
For years, operators have said complex licensing processes make it difficult to host live music, serve food outdoors or extend opening hours, with some pubs forced to close due to inconsistent local enforcement or administrative barriers. The review seeks to address these challenges and encourage more flexible trading.
The call for evidence centres on nine recommendations from the Government’s Licensing Taskforce, including:
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streamlining on-trade alcohol licensing for hospitality venues
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modernising advertising requirements for new or amended licences
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simplifying rules for outdoor trading and community events
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increasing the number of temporary event notices available to venues
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the review was designed to “cut red tape, boost footfall and make it easier for venues to put on the kind of events that bring people together”.
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle described the initiative as part of efforts to “help small businesses thrive while keeping communities safe”.
Nick Mackenzie, co-chair of the Licensing Taskforce and CEO at Greene King, welcomed the consultation, calling modernisation of the licensing system “a vital step towards reducing the red tape that has stifled businesses for too long”.
The review follows the Government’s Small Business Plan, published in July, which included measures to tackle late payments and improve access to finance for small firms.
Operators, landlords and other stakeholders are invited to respond to the call for evidence, which remains open for four weeks (deadline 6 November). Submissions can be made via the Government website: gov.uk/government/calls-for-evidence/reforming-the-licensing-system
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