The UK Government has unveiled plans to extend pub and bar licensing hours if England, Wales, or Scotland reach the semi-finals or final of the men's European Football Championships next year. The proposal, subject to public consultation, outlines potential extensions from the current 11 pm closing time to 1 am in England and Wales.
The Government, in its public consultation launched today, cited the potential for the tournament's latter stages, set to take place in Germany, to be occasions of "exceptional international, national or local significance." The Home Secretary, James Cleverly, emphasised the unifying power of international tournaments in bringing the nation together.
Home Secretary James Cleverly stated, "There are few things that bring a country together more than the prospect of winning an international tournament. England and Scotland are on their way to Germany, and Wales are still in with a shot of qualifying, so it is only right we put in place plans to support them and our hospitality industry."
The proposed extension of licensing hours during pivotal football matches aligns with the Government's ongoing efforts to bolster the hospitality industry. These plans are part of a broader strategy, including the continuation of relaxed licensing regulations, enabling pubs, restaurants, and bars to sell takeaway pints without bureaucratic impediments.
This initiative follows the extension of pub licensing hours for the men's Euro 2020 final and the longer opening hours granted for the King's Coronation bank holiday weekend earlier this year.
The public consultation, spanning 12 weeks, invites input from the public, licensing authorities, and the hospitality industry. This inclusive approach reflects the government's commitment to ensuring that decisions regarding licensing hours consider the diverse perspectives of stakeholders.
The proposed extension not only anticipates the potential success of the UK nations in the tournament but also aims to provide a timely boost for the hospitality sector. As the government seeks to strike a balance between supporting the nation's football aspirations and revitalising local businesses, the outcomes of the consultation will play a pivotal role in shaping the final decision.