Scotland's pubs and bars still able to be open for takeaways despite Government order to shut

You can still buy beer and food to take-away from pubs in Scotland.

Pubs and bars were asked to close by the Government, but can still be open for takeaway.

Pubs and bars across the Capital and Scotland can still open despite the Government’s request to shut, albeit only for takeaway.

The emergency Coronavirus (Scotland) Bill which was passed by the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday confirmed that pubs can sell alcohol and food to takeaway or for home delivery.

Pubs can sell alcohol for consumption off the premises or takeaway food if this was previously provided by the business, while adhering to social distancing guidelines.

The Campaign for Real Ale’s director for Scotland, Sarah Crawford, welcomed the move.

She said: “The fact that this emergency legislation puts it beyond doubt that pubs can sell alcohol for consumption off the premises, and offer food for takeaway or delivery where the pub previously offered food, will be welcome news for pubs who are still looking to offer services throughout the COVID-19 restriction.

“This will need to be done safely and in line with strict social distancing measures, but it does mean that communities who want to continue to support their local can do so.

“This will be especially important in our rural communities, where the local pub may be the only accessible business in the area.

“CAMRA is continuing to call on the UK and Scottish Governments to make sure that pubs of all types and sizes receive the support they need to get through the coronavirus crisis, so they can keep paying staff and are able to re-open and thrive once this is over.”

The confirmation came as more than 1000 four-packs of beer have been donated to health service employees.

The social enterprise Brewgooder launched the project to allow people to donate a four-pack of its beer to an NHS worker

The donation covers the cost price of four beers, a unique message of support, and non-contact delivery to the recipient’s address.

Alan Mahon, Brewgooder’s founder, said: “We are really pleased with the level of support that the campaign has received so far - a real testament to the generosity of the public who are firmly behind the NHS.

“Social good is the heart of who we are, and acts of social good have never been needed more than now.”