Sir Keir Starmer has developed a bit of a reputation – and attracted plenty of criticism – for U-turns during the two years of his premiership. But the late decision to permit ultra-extended licensing hours for England’s World Cup clash with Mexico in the early hours of Monday left football fans and all those in the hospitality sector raising a glass to the Prime Minister.
The last-16 match kicks off in Mexico City at 1am UK time, and while the Government had already relaxed licensing hours to allow for late kick-offs, the latest extension had been set at 2am.
Obviously, no-one wants to go home at half time – especially in the middle of the night – so the news that pubs and bars can stay open until 5am on Monday morning meant venues and fans could start planning for a long night out.
Embracing the zeitgeist, Sir Keir said: “Football might be coming home, but we’re making sure fans don’t have to.” Well, let’s not get ahead of ourselves, because England will have to step up their game to beat Mexico, let alone think about ending God knows how many years of hurt by conquering the world. But if it means fans can watch the game with friends and with a drink in hand, and if it gives a massive boost to hospitality venues, then the PM, at least, is on a winner.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “We all know the best place to watch the match is down the local.”
“Fantastic news…hugely welcomed by operators. The Government has listened to the overwhelming public support for England and recognised the challenges facing pubs and licensed premises across the country.
This pragmatic approach allows venues to focus on what matters most – bringing communities together to support the national team. Major sporting occasions like this deliver a significant boost to hospitality businesses while creating an atmosphere that unites the country.”
The original World Cup opening hour extensions covered most games in the world’s biggest sports tournament, bypassing the need for venues to seek temporary extensions (TENs) from local council licensing committees. The Government had initially said no to a further extension for the Mexico match but a bit of smart footwork paved the way for this one-off tactical switch.
Local Government Secretary Steve Reed said on Thursday the previous relaxing of licensing measures hadn’t covered the eventuality of England playing so late in the night. “This is one of the fastest changes in the law that we’ve seen.”
Michael Kill
Chief Executive of the Night Time Industries Association
The original World Cup opening hour extensions covered most games in the world’s biggest sports tournament, bypassing the need for venues to seek temporary extensions (TENs) from local council licensing committees. The Government had initially said no to a further extension for the Mexico match but a bit of smart footwork paved the way for this one-off tactical switch.
Local Government Secretary Steve Reed said on Thursday the previous relaxing of licensing measures hadn’t covered the eventuality of England playing so late in the night. “This is one of the fastest changes in the law that we’ve seen.”