Downing Street has vowed to confiscate powers from local councils that restrict customers from standing while drinking or ordering at the bar, in a direct response to Westminster City Council's draft licensing policy.
The council's proposals would discourage bar service and standing while drinking, requiring new venues to offer waiter service only and call last orders at 10pm in popular nightlife areas. The plan also seeks to ban new pubs and bars in a cumulative impact zone covering Soho and much of the West End. Downing Street has urged the council to work with landlords rather than impose restrictions.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan described the policies as "anti-growth", warning they would leave venues facing extinction. The government is due to grant Khan new powers to call in local council decisions he opposes. The consultation closes on August 9.