Gov launches initative to cut red tape to boost British nightlife

Pubs, clubs and restaurants are set to be released from red tape which has stifled business as the government ‘backs the British night out’, after revealing its new Plan for Change initiative. Action includes moves to improve the application of licensing laws and strengthen businesses’ competitiveness, giving diners, pub and party-goers more time and more choice to enjoy what British hospitality has to offer. It includes a landmark pilot that could see more alfresco dining and later opening hours in London, as the Mayor of London is granted new “call in” powers to review blocked licensing applications in nightlife hotspots. If successful, this approach could be rolled out to other mayors across England, working closely with their own local police forces. The measures aim to unlock the potential of the UK’s hospitality sector, which employs over three million people and contributes around £62bn to the economy. It comes as the government continues to go “further and faster to drive economic growth and get more money in working people’s pockets”, a key focus of the Plan for Change. The government stated that businesses have long indicated that the current licensing system lacks “proportionality, consistency, and transparency - creating barriers to growth and investment for business”. Blockers to growth include businesses being banned from extending licensing hours for late night drinking and anti-competitive blockages from other businesses. Rachel Reeves, chancellor of the exchequer, said: “British businesses are the lifeblood of our communities. Our Plan for Change will make sure they have the conditions to grow – not be tied down by unnecessarily burdensome red tape. “We’ve heard industry concerns and we’re partnering with businesses to understand what changes need to be made, because a thriving nighttime economy is good for local economies, good for growth, and good for getting more money in people’s pockets.” Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, added: “I am delighted that the government is looking to grant London greater powers over licensing. This significant decision would allow us to do more to support the capital’s pubs, clubs, music venues and other parts of the visit and tourist scene. It would boost tourism, stimulate growth and deliver new jobs both in London and across the country. “This is more evidence that we now have a government that wants to work with the capital and recognises the role that we can play in delivering economic prosperity and supporting Londoners as we build a better London for everyone.” Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality and national chair of the Institute of Licensing, concluded: “Cutting red tape and improving hospitality’s competitiveness is much-needed to unlock our sector’s potential to drive socially productive growth and create jobs. A new and improved licensing system that is fit for the 21st century will be a huge boost to the nation’s pubs, bars, restaurants and hotels. “I’m delighted that this expert group will be leading the review and coming forward with solutions that can unlock the high street’s potential, in addition to informing the government’s Industrial Strategy.”