Pubs in London’s Soho are criticizing a proposed policy aimed at curbing customers standing at premises. The Evening Standard reports that venue operators say the measures would harm the area’s nightlife and business by changing how drinkers are allowed to use space outside or around entrances. The story highlights concern from prominent political figures: Dawn Butler MP and Mayor Sadiq Khan have both expressed anger at the policy coming from Westminster City Council. According to the report, the proposed approach focuses on managing or restricting standing drinkers at Soho venues, with critics arguing it could lead to reduced footfall and stricter enforcement at local pubs and bars. The coverage reflects a dispute between local authorities’ efforts to regulate public-space activity and the hospitality sector’s view that the policy is disproportionate and damaging. The overall issue is the balance between managing street-level crowding or disorder and the commercial and cultural impact on Soho’s licensed venues.