The government has rejected calls to extend pub opening hours in England on Sunday night for fans to watch the England versus Mexico World Cup match. The match kicks off at 1am UK time in Mexico City on July 5, after England qualified with a 2-1 victory against DR Congo.
Keir Starmer Intervenes
It is understood that Keir Starmer is now trying to intervene to extend restrictions for a one-off, as many pubs missed the deadline for applying for a Temporary Event Notice (TEN). In the House of Commons, Liberal Democrat MP Max Wilkinson questioned whether ministers would consider extending licensing laws on Sunday "so fans can enjoy the game in the pub." He said: "Pubs will miss out on a real opportunity to get money in the till if ministers do not make a blanket extension for licensing hours."
Government Position
While the government has already relaxed laws to accommodate matches beginning later in the evening, Business Minister Kate Dearden confirmed they would not be extended further for a 1am start. She said: "Pubs can stay open for an extra two to three hours depending on how late the match starts so pubs can still open as the game finishes. Regarding Sunday, unfortunately that doesn't apply with the 1am start but going forwards we are absolutely backing our pubs so people can watch and support our lads, and it's coming home hopefully."
Current Licensing Rules
In April, the government relaxed licensing rules so England and Scotland fans could watch matches in the pub. Licensing hours were extended from 11pm to 1am for games with kick-offs from 5pm up to 9pm. Furthermore, pubs can stay open until 2am for kick-offs after 9pm and up to 10pm. Beyond those rules, pubs can apply to their local council for a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) to stay open late. However, applications must be submitted no later than five working days in advance, meaning the deadline has already passed for pubs looking to apply.
Pubs Prepare Ahead
Some venues had anticipated England's potential progression and had already secured an event notice by applying ahead of time. In Glasgow and other parts of Scotland, many pubs were open till 4am during Scotland's three late night World Cup games. During Scotland's first game against Haiti on June 14, which kicked off at 2am BST, Kitty O'Shea's in the West End of Glasgow had its doors open from 7pm to 7am for football fans.
Industry Reaction
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: "We remain in close contact with government about concerns raised by publicans who want to show the match but haven't got TENs in place. It would be a crying shame for fans and pubs if our locals weren't able to host such an important match."
