Downing Street has stepped into a dispute over plans to restrict standing-up drinking in London, urging Westminster City Council to work with pub landlords and insisting that the practice "is British life." The intervention follows criticism of the council as it updates its licensing policy, with the proposed changes drawing opposition from pub owners and campaigners. A No 10 spokesperson said the government wants the council to engage with landlords to ensure the policy reflects the importance of traditional pub culture. The exact details of the proposed restrictions have not been disclosed, but the row has centered on the term "vertical drinking," which refers to patrons standing and socializing in pubs. Westminster Council has defended its plan as part of a broader review of licensing rules, but faces pressure to reconsider amid the backlash.