Sacha Lord's legal challenge heard in the High Court with decision 'imminent'

Sacha Lord's legal challenge to bring forward the reopening of the hospitality sector has now been heard in the High Court, with a decision expected soon.

The night-time economy advisor for Greater Manchester is seeking a judicial review to allow both indoor and outdoor hospitality to reopen at the same time as non-essential retail on 12 April.

He already forced the government to drop the rule requiring businesses to serve alcohol alongside a ‘substantial meal' after arguing it was discriminatory to certain sections of society.

Various Eateries' Hugh Osmond announced he was joining Lord's latest legal challenge earlier this month.

Lord tweeted: "The High Court now have our full evidence and complete witness statements. We have also today requested an expedited decision. Every day before 17 May we will class as a win. Decision imminent. Keeping hospitality closed is doing more harm than good.

"The government's case is flawed, made up and shambolic. This is a long shot, but neither me nor @hughosmond could sit back and allow hospitality to be treated so appallingly, without any evidence to back it up. It is right that we challenge and fight for our industry."

Lord previously said the government had failed to provide new evidence as to why indoor hospitality had to remain closed longer than non-essential retail.

The prime minister is expected to confirm further details around lifting of restrictions in a press conference on Easter Monday.