Local media reporting on the issue sparked an outpouring of rage, with even the prime minister’s office weighing in. Perhaps taken aback by the passion the issue has provoked, the council has responded by denying it is trying to “ban” standing in pubs. “There is no plan, and never has been, to ban drinking while standing up in a Westminster pub.” Nevertheless, the plan put forward by the council makes repeated references to “vertical drinking” as a problematic activity. “How else are consumers meant to make the most of wellbeing benefits pubs offer with a ‘vertical drinking’ ban?”