Last orders could come later for drinkers in England and Wales as the government fast-tracks a review of what it calls “outdated” licensing laws.
The plan aims to make it easier for pubs and bars to serve food outdoors and host live music, part of a push to “cut red tape” and lift the struggling hospitality sector.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the move was about “backing pubs to thrive” and boosting town-centre footfall.
Industry leaders have welcomed the review.
Nick Mackenzie, chief executive of Greene King, said simplifying the system would help pubs under “enormous pressures” from rising costs but was only one "vital step towards reducing the red-tape that has stifled businesses for too long".
"Pubs are faced with continued rising costs, placing them under enormous pressures which is why the Government must continue to back the sector, including critical reforms on business rates which would unlock opportunities for pubs to invest and help drive economic growth," he said.
A four-week consultation by the Department for Business and Trade is calling for evidence from industry.