The Government has announced that it will relax licensing hours for the on-trade during England’s World Cup matches for a maximum of four hours to a latest time of 1am, stating:
“The Government has listened to the views received in response to the consultation and in discussion with partners has decided to proceed with the proposal to relax licensing hours nationally for England’s World Cup matches.
And
“The relaxation will occur during England matches in the World Cup with a scheduled kick off time of 8pm or later. It will be for the sale of alcohol and late night refreshment for consumption on the premises. The relaxation will last four hours, to a latest time of 1am. This length of time covers any extra time and penalties, and will also mean that customers are likely to leave premises gradually after the match, minimising any nuisance to the public.”
ALMR
The ALMR Strategic Affairs Director, Kate Nicholls commented: “This is a great result for the industry which will ensure that football fans can enjoy the excitement of the World Cup in the enjoyable atmosphere of the pub.
“The relaxation will alleviate the need for thousands of pubs and bars to apply for costly and time-consuming Temporary Event Notices, saving the industry and local authorities around £2,500,000 per England game and will ensure a much welcome boost in trade.”
BBPA
And Brigid Simmonds, British Beer & Pub Association Chief Executive, said:
“It’s really great news, which will put pubs at the heart of a great national event. I am particularly pleased that the Government has really listened, and made sure that common sense prevailed, granting the full four hours after kick off for England games, as we had asked.”
The association, which has led efforts to secure extra hours for pubs since last autumn, says that the four-hour extension is needed, not just because there are group matches starting at 8pm, or later, but also to ensure a smooth dispersal from venues.