Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Pubs as Takeaway Restaurants

Tuesday 19 May 2020 · 3 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Government has relaxed planning rules for pubs and restaurants to operate as hot food takeaways.
  • Takeaway food services are welcomed but do not replace normal operations.
  • Prime Minister plans for the hospitality sector, including pubs, to tentatively reopen in July.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Shaun Bailey
Economy Business & Trade
Context

During the covid-19 outbreak, pubs have faced significant challenges due to restrictions on their operations.

Question

Whether he plans to promote pubs as takeaway restaurants during the covid-19 outbreak. The Government has relaxed planning rules so that pubs and restaurants can operate as hot food takeaways but what specific measures will be taken to support this?

Answer from George Eustice

The Government has relaxed planning rules so that pubs and restaurants can operate as hot food takeaways. We published guidance for takeaway services, welcomed by the sector. The UK government and devolved Administrations are working closely with sectors to support reopening.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific measures to ensure pubs survive post-crisis were not detailed

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Q2 David Johnston
Culture, Media & Sport
Context

Pubs like the Fleur De Lys in East Hagbourne have been doing a great job offering takeaway pints and food during the outbreak.

Question

The Fleur De Lys in East Hagbourne has been providing takeaway services, including beer and food. Can he confirm that this is actively encouraged but not a substitute for normal operations? Will the Government guide pubs on safe reopening?

Answer from George Eustice

We welcomed takeaway food services and recognised their contribution to food supply during lockdown. We are clear that until normal operations can resume, this does not provide all previous trade.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Steps for safe reopening were not specified

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Q3 Shaun Bailey
Economy Employment Business & Trade
Context

Pubs are vital to communities in Wednesbury, Oldbury and Tipton. They have faced difficulties due to closures.

Question

Our pubs are at the heart of our communities but have struggled due to forced closures. What work will he undertake with colleagues and the West Midlands Mayor to ensure they can survive post-crisis?

Answer from George Eustice

Pubs are at heart of community, forced closures have caused difficulty. Prime Minister intends hospitality sector including pubs to tentatively start reopening in July, subject to epidemiology supporting this move.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific measures for post-crisis survival were not detailed

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