EXC: Takeaway pints pencilled in for April and no curfew when the pubs finally reopen in May - subject to numbers continuing to fall. PM has ordered “simplification” of hospitality red tape that left industry in “limbo” last year. https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/13963692/pubs-open-may-no-curfew-takeaway-pints-april/

Ministers determined for hospitality “to open properly this time” after many pubs were left uneconomically viable by curfew and confusing tier restrictions on drinking with food.

Industry say 87 million pints had been wasted since pandemic started, costing the sector £331m.

May take longer than many hope to get to the point but other options dismissed. Senior government source: ‘We are not going to open pubs that can’t sell booze. What would be the point of that?’
Sounds like there will be lots outdoor drinking encouraged tho: “ventilation is key”

Last night multiple Whitehall sources and ministers confirmed the “early days'' plan. One said: “Things that were proven to be a hindrance like 10pm, will go. If pubs are to reopen for good they’ve got to do it properly and can’t be stuck in limbo like last year.”

Another added: "Ventilation is key to tackling the virus so expect a major push to drink outside to begin with, especially for larger groups."

FULL STORY: https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/13963692/pubs-open-may-no-curfew-takeaway-pints-april/