Westminster Council faces public criticism over a new licensing policy for central London, with some people claiming it aims to stop “vertical drinking” in Soho—meaning customers drinking while standing rather than seated. The controversy centers on how the policy will be applied in practice in areas with many late-opening venues.
Outlet accounts describe the debate as opponents argue the council is effectively restricting how people use pub and bar spaces. Other coverage frames the policy as focused on licensing conditions and premises management, rather than an outright ban on standing drinking. Reported reactions include calls for clarification and questions about whether enforcement will depend on venue layout, staffing, and whether standing areas are permitted under existing licensing terms.
While both outlets discuss the same issue, they differ mainly in emphasis: one highlights the public claim that standing drinkers are targeted, while the other focuses on explaining the policy and addressing the accusations. Both present the controversy as an interpretation of the council’s licensing approach and the uncertainty around how conditions could affect customers in Soho.
