It has been reported that pubs and outdoor spaces will be last to open when the Government lifts the current Covid-19 lockdown.

According to several national newspapers, Michael Gove MP warned pubs would be 'among the last' to see restrictions lifted.  It could be as late as Christmas before pubs, bars, restaurants and clubs are able to fully open.

Speaking on the BBC's Andrew Marr show, Gove, said that 'areas of hospitality' would be among the last to exit the government's lockdown restrictions.

Pubs, clubs and other licensed venues have been hardest hit by the current lockdown having been under an enforced closure for several weeks.  The current lockdown will last for at least another three weeks but it is expected that the government will gradually lift restrictions with the leisure sector possibly being some of the last to have restrictions lifted.

A publican in London said in relation to the comments made by Mr Gove: “Things are looking pretty dire. At this rate it seems unlikely we will be open again before Christmas.

“Christmas is about as big as business gets for the pub industry. It will be a huge loss.

“January and February are dead months — with- out Christmas to carry us through, we will struggle. It will be a very glum start to 2021.”