Tier 2 rules means diners and drinkers must leave pubs and restaurants once food is finished

Those living under Tier 2 restrictions will not be allowed to linger to drink in pubs and restaurants after eating, the Prime Minister’s official spokesperson has announced. 

Asked how long drinkers can stay in the pub after purchasing “a substantial meal” – now required under law in order to have a drink – the Downing Street spokesperson said: “We’ve been clear that, in Tier 2 I believe, that you need to have a substantial meal if ordering any alcohol and it remains the case that the guidance says that once the meal is finished, it is at that point.”

While yesterday’s announcement of Tier 2 rules bought some hope for London’s hard-pressed hospitality sector, today’s clarification is likely to be seen as yet another imposition on struggling businesses, as alcohol sales are traditionally where most restaurants and pubs turn the largest profit. 

The move is also likely to provoke anger amongst publicans, who have been advised that those wanting soft drinks or coffee do not need to eat a substantial meal. It has not been clarified why the virus is more likely to spread to over a glass of wine than a mug of cocoa. 

The pub trade has been particularly hard hit by the Tier 2 restrictions with “wet led” businesses – those that make their money almost exclusively from drink – being banned from reopening. 

The news follows yesterdays announcement that business lunches will be allowed, and there will be no restrictions on table size for groups from one household or support bubble. 

The full Tier 2 restrictions relevant to eating and drinking out can be read here.