The government has confirmed that a smoking ban will come in outside of schools and hospitals, but pub beer gardens will be unaffected.
The move has been welcomed broadly by hospitality, although business owners still have to cope with extra costs announced in the Budget last week.
“Consumers and licensees will welcome today’s announcement that ends speculation about the knock-on impact that a potential outdoor smoking ban could have had on trade and the viability of our locals, which are a key part of this country’s social fabric and deserve to be protected and promoted,” said Ash Corbett-Collins, chairman of CAMRA.
“It is right that government encourages the wellbeing benefits of enjoying a pint in the moderated setting of the community local, and we feared that a ban on smoking in outdoor spaces would have encouraged more people to stop visiting pubs and to drink at home instead.
“We saw during the pandemic lockdowns the impact this had on health compared to moderate drinking in the pub.”
Many challenges remain
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “It is good to hear that the government has heeded the BBPA’s warning about the adverse impact this ban would have had on pubs.
“Had this restriction been introduced, it would have led to many pubs shutting their doors and jobs being lost, and so we welcome the government’s change of heart and proportionate approach.
“However, there remain many challenges still facing the beer and pub sector to which we do not need the extra costs and burden of legislation.
“We look forward to further working with the government to tackle the soaring cost of doing business, including rising employment costs, national insurance contributions, and implementing long-term business rates reform.
“Only then can we continue to contribute to much needed growth and maintaining the essential place of brewers and pubs in communities across the country.”
