Some 45,000 pubs are due to re-open tomorrow, serving some 3 million pints, but heavy restrictions — compared to normal times — will remain in place.
As before this lockdown, pubs and bars will be required to ensure one metre-plus social distancing is in place, operate table service only, and ensure that face masks are worn, other than when sat at a table inside or if outdoors.
The British Beer and Pub Association says that, for these reasons, it estimates beer sales for Monday will be 65% — some 1.6 million pints — lower than a normal Monday pre-pandemic. This is below the break-even point for the majority of pubs, who cannot trade profitably while the current restrictions remain in place.
It is urging the government to commit to 21st June for the lifting of all restrictions, including removal of social distancing and allowing vertical drinking and bar service to resume.
However, the developing situation in relation to the Indian strain of the coronovirus has created uncertainty.
Professor Andrew Hayward, a member of the government’s taskforce on new and emerging viruses (Nervtag), told The Guardian: “Indoor mixing will almost certainly increase transmission of the B.1.617.2 [Indian] variant, but at this stage nobody can be sure by how much.”
Licensees will keep an eye on the news as infection levels are monitored between now and 21st June.
This morning, health secretary, Matt Hancock, said a final decision on the 21st June step would be made on 14th June.
