The Government of UK has announced temporary changes to the licensing laws to enable pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes to sell alcohol outdoors to their customers.

By simplifying and reducing the costs of the licensing process, the government intends to make it easier for people to safely drink and dine outside.

Under the new laws, pubs and restaurants will be allowed to make use of car parks and terraces as dining and drinking areas with their existing seating licenses.

UK Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said: “I know we all look forward to seeing our pubs, cafes and restaurants open their doors again and I’m determined to give them a helping hand to get back on their feet and their staff back to work safely.

“That’s why we are introducing changes to make it quicker, easier and cheaper for them to set up outdoor seating and street stalls to serve food and drink.”

The government anticipates that the new laws will help to revive businesses and help the economy bounce back from the coronavirus crisis.

The government initiative is said to be part of its comprehensive plan to revive high streets, support the hospitality industry and help get people back to work.

Additionally, the temporary laws will also enable more licensed premises, such as pubs and restaurants, to sell alcohol for consumption off the premises.

UK Business secretary Alok Sharma said: “Our pubs, restaurants and cafes are the lifeblood of high streets and town centres across the country and we are doing all we can to ensure they can bounce back as quickly and safely as possible.

“This week we gave our vital hospitality sector the green light to reopen from 4 July, and today we are introducing new legislation to enable businesses to make the most of the crucial summer months ahead.”