I was shocked to be sat down in my local with a pint this week and read that Labour is suggesting cutting pub hours in what they say is to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve public health.
This proposal feels like a direct assault on Britain’s pub industry.
Public Health Minister Andrew Gwynne revealed at the Labour Party Conference that the government is considering “tightening up the hours of operation” for pubs and bars.
However, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden, quickly countered, stating, “I don’t think there is any plan to shut the pubs early.”
Yet, since the general election in July, the Labour Party has been full of scandals, mixed messages, and broken promises, so it’s hard to trust their assurances. One moment they’re talking about early pub closures, and the next, they’re denying it. This is the same Labour government that has frequently contradicted itself.
Let’s be clear—this so-called “nanny state” approach will devastate our pub and hospitality industry. It punishes responsible patrons and puts additional strain on businesses already grappling with rising costs. Closing pubs earlier won’t address the real issues; it will only harm publicans, their staff, and the communities they serve.
The pub and hospitality industry are already facing soaring energy costs which are only getting worse under a Labour Government when they promised lower energy costs, potential tax hikes in the autumn budget, and the lingering effects of the pandemic, with many publicans still repaying loans. These knee-jerk policies threaten to push even more pubs to the brink of closure.
Having run a pub myself, I understand the immense challenges of this industry. The pandemic made running a pub one of the toughest experiences I’ve ever faced. With escalating costs, staff shortages, and relentless restrictions, every day was a struggle. Thanks to the previous Conservative government’s supportive policies, we managed to stay afloat. Their measures, while not perfect, provided crucial support during those trying times.
Having run a pub myself, I understand the immense challenges of this industry. The pandemic made running a pub one of the toughest experiences I’ve ever faced.
Throughout this period, the resilience and dedication of individuals in the pub and hospitality industry shone through. From small, family-run pubs to bustling restaurants and hotels, we rallied together. At my pub, we offered free meals to emergency service workers, key workers, and care home staff as a gesture of appreciation. This solidarity was a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we support each other, even in the darkest times.
Now, Labour’s ill-conceived proposals threaten to undo this progress. Early pub closures won’t solve the industry’s problems—what the pub and hospitality industry need is support with energy bills, taxes, and reducing bureaucratic red tape. Labour’s ideas might look good on paper, but they are detached from the daily realities of running a pub or a venue in the hospitality industry. Their proposals risk stifling the industry rather than saving it, jeopardising the community spirit and hard work that have been its lifeblood.
Organisations like Long Live The Local and Pub is The Hub are advocating for practical support—such as cutting beer duty, reducing VAT, and easing regulatory burdens. Long Live The Local reports that nearly 6,000 pubs have closed since 2010, and the rate of closures is accelerating. What the industry needs are business-friendly policies that alleviate financial pressures and allow pubs to thrive—not Labour’s nanny state interventions that could make matters worse.
Ultimately, this issue goes beyond economics; it’s about community. Pubs are at the heart of our communities — they bring people together, create jobs, and support the local economy. To preserve them, we need to back them by going out, spending money, and ensuring they stay open. And let’s not forget the hardworking staff behind the bar and in the kitchen. They work long, challenging hours, often with little recognition, but they are the backbone of this industry. A bit of respect and appreciation for them goes a long way.
Now is the time to stand up for our pubs before Labour’s misguided ideas take more of them away.
About Matthew J. Bridger
Matthew J. Bridger is an award-winning entrepreneur, media figure, and campaigner, known for his innovative work in business, social impact, and community service. At just 24, he has already made significant strides across various sectors, including entrepreneurship, media, politics, and philanthropy. His achievements have been recognised with multiple awards including being named as the UK Prime Minister’s 2241st Points of Light Award Recipient under Rishi Sunak. He currently holds the positions of Councillor for Kennington Ward and Vice Chairman on Kennington Community Council and is Deputy Chairman of the Ashford Conservative Association as well as the Ashford Young Conservatives. Matthew has in the past served as a Campaign Manager for the Conservative Party to 4 MPs and 3 Conservative Associations and has also worked as a Senior Communications Advisor to a Member of Parliament.
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