Unlike other European countries, this ritual is commonplace here - and is encouraged by the pub industry, largely because it generates more alcohol consumption.
Many pubs now have virtually no furniture - except four foot high tables - to accommodate the vertical drinker. Who drinks faster because his/her hands are full.
Drunkenness is the sole aim of the majority of nightime pubgoers - often made certain by preloading elsewhere, before embarking on the night out.
Vertical drinking - to be banned, when lockdown ends - is known to be a catalyst for fights. Seating puts customers in a more awkward position for confrontations.
Perhaps our public houses will be quieter places - with all customers seated, at a distance...