The British Beer & Pub Association, the leading trade association representing brewers and pubs, has today responded to the Government’s announcement on its Winter Plan for Coronavirus Control.
The trade association has said the repeal of COVID powers to close-down or apply restrictions to premises like pubs are welcome news for the sector.
It said the measures would hopefully provide stability for the sector by enabling it to keep trading through the winter months, building confidence in the sector at this critical time in its recovery.
The trade association did caution that although the ‘Plan B’ measures in the Government’s Winter Plan were to enable businesses like pubs to stay open, it did have concerns that asking people to work from home as part of ‘Plan B’ would impact the recovery of the sector – especially city centre pubs – and that covid certification has not been ruled out entirely.
Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the BBPA, (pictured), said, “It is very welcome news for our sector that powers to close-down or apply restrictions to our pubs will be repealed.
“Forced closure during lockdowns and unnecessary restrictions such as the 10pm curfew, rule of six and substantial meals rule have greatly damaged our sector.
“Publicans across the country will sigh in relief knowing they have stability to keep trading over the winter months. We also urge the devolved administrations to follow the approach that has been outlined today.
“Of course, ‘Plan B’ measures suggesting working from home are concerning as they would impact the recovery of our sector – particularly city centre pubs – if implemented. It is also vital covid certification continues to be ruled out for pubs under any future plans.”