Speaking to the BBC, communities secretary Robert Jenrick said people would “more likely” break the rules when out drinking.
He said: “It is commonsensical that the longer you stay in pubs and restaurants, the more likely you are to come into contact with other individuals.
“The more drinks that people have, the more likely that some people are to break the rules.”
New restrictions could come into effect for England starting next week, but officials have not made a final decision on the extent or time periods.
