October 5, 2025
Wheat v E Lacon & Co Ltd [1966] UKHL 1
Mr Wheat, a paying guest in a public house, fell down an internal back staircase and died. His widow sued the brewery owners under the Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957. The House of Lords held the brewery were occupiers but had not breached the common duty of care. Facts Mr and Mrs Wheat, their daughter and Mrs Wheat’s parents stayed for a week at the Golfer’s Arms public house in Great Yarmouth from 30 August 1958. The premises were owned by E. Lacon & Co Ltd (the brewery). The ground floor operated as a public house managed by Mr Richardson for
