Westminster Council clarifies stance on Soho pub standing rules

Westminster Council has moved to clarify its draft alcohol licensing policy after a national debate erupted over claims it would ban standing in Soho pubs. The council said the guidance on 'vertical drinking' applies only to new openings, not existing venues, and accused the Guardian of misrepresenting its proposals.

The controversy began when the Guardian reported on Thursday that the council’s policy could limit standing in pubs. London Mayor Sadiq Khan quickly responded on social media, stating, 'You can’t run a world-famous nightlife district with a village-hall mindset.' Downing Street also weighed in, with the prime minister’s spokesperson describing busy pubs as 'just British life'.

Council rejects 'ludicrous' interpretation

Tim Barnes, Conservative deputy leader of Westminster Council, dismissed the Guardian’s report as 'utterly ludicrous'. He said the policy was not new and was aimed at ensuring new venues consider the impact of 'vertical drinking' on crowd control and public safety. Existing pubs in Soho would not be affected.

Barnes added that the council’s guidance was being misrepresented to suggest a broader crackdown on nightlife. Westminster Council later issued a 'mythbuster' statement to clarify its position, emphasising that no ban on standing in pubs was being proposed.

Mayor’s powers under spotlight

The debate has highlighted the broader political tensions over licensing powers in London. Khan is set to gain the ability to overrule local councils on licensing decisions under a two-year pilot scheme. The mayor has signalled his intention to use these powers to support the hospitality sector, framing the Westminster policy as an example of unnecessary restriction.

In a statement, Khan said, 'London’s hospitality and nightlife support jobs, culture and growth. New powers for City Hall will help ensure decisions consider the wider benefits for our city.' The mayor’s office has not commented on whether it would intervene in Westminster’s policy if the pilot scheme proceeds.

What happens next

Westminster Council’s draft policy will continue through its formal consultation process. Residents and businesses can submit responses before a final decision is made. The council has not set a date for the next stage but confirmed the policy would not affect current licensing conditions for existing venues.

Separately, Khan’s pilot scheme to overrule local councils on licensing is expected to begin later this year. The mayor’s office has not specified which boroughs or decisions might be targeted first.