Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has launched a scathing attack on the Labour government's proposed tightening of drink-drive laws, branding the plan "ridiculous" and a potential "death knell for country pubs" across Britain.
A Limit 'Dreamt Up by the Islington Cycling Elite'
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Mr Farage claimed the policy was being designed by the "Islington, north London, bicycling classes" who fail to understand transport realities in rural areas. He argued the current limit, in place since 1967, has worked "pretty effectively" and that Britain's roads are already "incredibly safe" compared to nations like France and Germany.
The proposed change would see the legal limit in England and Wales reduced from 35 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath to 22 micrograms, bringing it in line with Scotland, where the lower limit was introduced in 2014. For some individuals, particularly women and those with a smaller build, this could mean that even a single standard drink might risk exceeding the new threshold.
Brewery Bosses Warn of 'Perfect Storm' for Pubs
The row over drink-driving laws adds to mounting fury within the hospitality sector, which is facing a confluence of severe cost pressures. Publicans are grappling with significant increases in business rates and the national minimum wage, creating what industry leaders describe as a "perfect storm".
Jonathan Neame, chief executive of Britain's oldest brewery, Shepherd Neame, issued a stark warning, suggesting Chancellor Rachel Reeves's policies risk doing to the pub sector "what Margaret Thatcher did to the miners." He told The Times the government's approach was "socially, morally and economically wrong".
Chris Jowsey, of Admiral Taverns, said a tougher limit would be "another blow to rural pubs in particular", while Greene King's Nick Mackenzie warned rate rises "could be the tipping point that changes the shape of the industry forever."
Government Insists Change Will Not Spoil a 'Great Night Out'
In response to the criticism, Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood was forced to deny that the plans were aimed at stopping people from enjoying a "great night out". She insisted the vast majority of people are responsible and do not drink and drive when visiting the pub.
Meanwhile, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander pointed to the experience in Scotland, telling LBC: "I'm sorry, but rural pubs still do exist in Scotland. The law changed there in 2014." The Department for Transport cited studies indicating no significant long-term impact on Scottish pubs since the limit was lowered a decade ago.
Despite these assurances, publicans like Matt Todd of the Wonston Arms near Winchester say they "cannot soak up any more costs when the industry is screaming," describing his own business rates bill as having "gone through the roof".
The proposed drink-drive limit change is part of a broader road safety strategy unveiled by the government on Tuesday. Other measures include mandatory eye tests for drivers over 70, a minimum learning period for new drivers, and a crackdown on illegal number plates and uninsured drivers.
