Manchester hospitality sector slams ‘insufficient’ government response

Hospitality leaders in Greater Manchester, led by the region’s night time economy advisor Sacha Lord, are continuing legal proceedings against the introduction of Tier 3 restrictions after receiving an “insufficient” government response.

The group has previously said the decision has no scientific basis and will “recklessly destroy” the region’s hospitality and nightlife industry, and is seeking judicial review to challenge the lawfulness of the government’s decision.

Greater Manchester moved to Tier 3 restrictions on 23 October, meaning pubs and bars not serving “substantial food” must close.

When the restrictions were announced last week, Lord said the hospitality sector had “spent thousands” introducing government-advised safety measures and he had not seen “tangible scientific evidence” to suggest closures were necessary.

Lord said: “We have now received a formal response letter from the government about Greater Manchester being placed into Tier 3. I cannot go into detail, but I can say that we have considered it and it is insufficient.

“I have instructed my lawyers to commence legal proceedings. Governmental decision-making must be based on transparency and openness, both of which are lacking at the moment.”