The Prime Minister's office criticized the move by the London local council to ban 'standing and drinking' A move by a London local council to ban 'standing and drinking' in the city's public places has drawn criticism from the Prime Minister's office. The Prime Minister's office said on the 2nd that it is "understanding" that the London Borough of Hackney's move to ban 'standing and drinking' in some public places from the 1st was "not suitable". Hackney Council announced on the 30th of last month that it would prohibit 'standing and drinking' in some public places, such as outside bars and cafes in the borough, from the 1st of this month. The council explained that it would allow people to drink only when sitting on chairs or benches set up in designated areas. The Prime Minister's office responded that it would "monitor the situation" while expressing its position that it is "understanding" that the measure is "not suitable". Regarding the council's move, a spokesperson for the Prime Minister's office said, "We understand that there are problems with drinking in public, but we also know that there are many people who drink in a civilized manner." The spokesperson added, "We think that the measures taken by Hackney Council are not suitable, and we will monitor the situation." On the other hand, Hackney Council said that it had introduced the measure to reduce "excessive drinking" and improve "quality of life" for local residents. The council also said that it would take a "balanced approach" to enforce the measure while also providing support for local businesses. Hackney Council's move has sparked controversy, with some residents expressing their opposition to the ban on social media. However, the council said that it would continue to work with local residents and businesses to find a solution that works for everyone.
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