Thank you for writing to me regarding restrictions on public houses in the coming lockdown.
Due to the recent rise in Coronavirus case numbers, which we are seeing rising rapidly across the whole of the UK, the Government must now take necessary steps to combat the spread of the virus.
As a result, Public Houses must close to visitors from the 4th November until 2nd December 2020. I was very pleased to hear that the guidance published by the Government will allow for alcohol to be sold on a takeaway basis, via click-and-collect. This applies to both pubs and breweries and will present them with an opportunity to generate sales and reduce the need to dispose of valuable stock.
Despite this welcome news I am fully aware of the very difficult trading conditions for Public Houses. I have visited several licensed premises across the Derbyshire Dales in the recent months and I am proud of the great effort made by all businesses to trade and comply with Coronavirus protocols.
I know the Government are also aware of the problems facing the industry and have brought forward support in terms of the temporary VAT cut to 5%, business rates exemptions and also by freezing beer duty.
The new Coronavirus restrictions will automatically cease on the 2nd December. The restrictions aim to reduce the “R” number and stop the spread of the Coronavirus. I look forward to the excellent public houses we have in the Derbyshire Dales being able to open their doors to customers again.