Fears 10pm curfew will lead to job losses

BEER and brewery lobbying groups have warned that government’s decision to begin a 10pm curfew at pubs and bars could ‘devastate’ the sector and lead to job losses.

On Tuesday, prime minister Boris Johnson announced that bars and pubs will have to empty of customers for a 10pm closing time, in an effort to curtail the spread of Covid-19.

But there was a lack of evidence in the public domain that pubs and bars are causing more infections than other sectors, according to the chief executive of the Campaign for Real Ale, Tom Stainer.

He said: ‘Pub-goers and publicans alike want to stop the spread of COVID-19, but this curfew is an arbitrary restriction that unfairly targets the hospitality sector and will have a devastating impact on pubs, jobs and local communities.

‘For the third time in a week, CAMRA is calling for the Government to publish the evidence that pubs or restaurants are the source of more transmissions than other sectors across the country – if they aren’t, then why are they being singled out for nationwide restrictions?’

Pubs and bars will need tax cuts and rent support if they are to survive, according to James Calder, chief executive of the Society of Independent Brewers.

He said: ‘A new week and new rules for pubs who have diligently implemented guidance to make their venues COVID secure without receiving further financial support.’

This year, 315 pubs have closed in England and Wales – while 473 shut in 2019.