‘Disproportionate effect’ on the hospitality sector of new restrictions

Paul Davies MS – the Leader of the Opposition in the Welsh Parliament – has said the new restrictions announced today on the hospitality sector, which will be imposed from Friday are “disproportionate, and unfair”.

From Friday, no alcohol can be served in bars, pubs, or restaurants, which will also have to close at 6pm.

Mr Davies said:

“This blanket approach across all of Wales is disproportionate and will unfairly affect parts of the country where infection rates are significantly lower than others, and will harm the sector to such an extent that large parts of it may not recover.

“This is after they have invested hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of pounds on making their premises as safe as possible.

“With the best will in the world, and especially in the run-up to Christmas, if pubs and cafes cannot sell alcohol with meals, it could encourage people to drink at home and in groups. All the evidence so far has shown that these sorts of interactions are generally more likely to be a cause of transmission.”