In September the Government introduced a 10pm curfew on hospitality businesses in England. Across the UK each nation has also imposed some limits on the opening times for pubs, restaurants and bars. But the policy has been met with criticism from those who say the curfew is an ineffective method of controlling the spread of coronavirus, as well as being damaging to businesses.
On Tuesday MPs voted on Boris Johnson’s three-tier lockdown system, which will see England divided into one of three lockdown tiers.
While the legislation passed through the House of Commons, 42 Conservative MPs rebelled against the 10pm curfew to symbolically register their disapproval of the measure.
Last month it was decided restaurants, pubs and bars must now operate a table service only.
These businesses must also not have customers on the premises between 10pm and 5am.
READ MORE: Pub 10pm curfew: Which 42 Tory MPs REBELLED against Boris Johnson?
The Government guidance reads: “From Thursday, September 24, pubs, bars and restaurants – including those in hotels and venues in the entertainment, leisure and tourism sectors must be closed between 10pm and 5am.”
Although bars and restaurants will have to close, hotel guests will still be able to order room service after 10pm.
The guidance adds: “Hotels will still be able to provide food and drink through room service between the hours of 10pm and 5am as long as it is ordered by phone or online.”
Hospitality businesses could face a £10,000 fine for failing to adhere to the rules.
