Government calls time on red tape for pubs, clubs, and restaurants

Pubs, clubs and restaurants will benefit from a reduction in the red tape that has stifled hospitality business, the government said.

Action includes moves to improve the application of licensing laws and strengthening businesses' competitiveness. This will give diners, pub and partygoers more time and more choice to enjoy what the UK hospitality has to offer, the government says.

The changes include 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.

The government says that if successful, this approach could be rolled out to other mayors to work with their own local police forces across England.

Businesses have long indicated that the current licensing system lacks proportionality, consistency, and transparency - creating barriers to growth and investment for business.

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, 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 night time economy is good for local economies, good for growth, and good for getting more money in people's pockets.'

Internet link: GOV.UK

About us

We at Bowen & Partners pride ourselves on our personal customer service and high client satisfaction levels.

Bowen & Partners is the trading name of Bowen Accountants Ltd. Registered in England & Wales No. 06895043

Contact details

01249 720341

Bowen Accountants Ltd, Unit 1, Gate Farm, Sutton Benger, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 4RE

© 2025 Bowen Accountants Ltd. All rights reserved. We use cookies on this website, you can find more information about cookies here. powered by totalSOLUTION

In accordance with the disclosure requirements of the Provision of Services Regulations 2009, our professional indemnity insurer is QBE UK Limited of QBE European Operations, 30 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 3BD. The territorial coverage is worldwide excluding professional business carried out from an office in the United States of America or Canada and excludes any action for a claim brought in any court in the United States of America or Canada.