The UK government has rejected calls for a pub opening extension ahead of England’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against Mexico, which kicks off at 1:00 am UK time on Sunday in Mexico City.
The decision means pubs without special permission will have to operate under existing licensing rules despite requests from lawmakers and the hospitality industry for a pub opening extension.
Government rejects proposal
Speaking in the House of Commons, Liberal Democrat, MP Max Wilkinson, urged the government to relax licensing laws to allow fans to watch the match in pubs.
“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,” Wilkinson said.
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Business Minister, Kate Dearden, said the government would not approve a pub opening extension for the late-night fixture.
“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,” she said.
“Regarding Sunday, unfortunately that doesn’t apply with the 1 am start, but going forwards we are absolutely backing our pubs so people can watch and support our lads, and it’s coming home hopefully.”
Existing licensing rules
The government introduced temporary licensing changes in April to accommodate England and Scotland matches during the World Cup.
Under the temporary measures, pubs can remain open until 1:00 am for matches kicking off between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm. For fixtures starting after 9:00 pm, venues can stay open until 2:00 am.
However, those provisions do not apply to matches beginning at 1:00 am, meaning no automatic pub opening extension will be available for England’s meeting with Mexico.
Pubs can apply to local councils for a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) to extend trading hours, but applications must be submitted at least five working days in advance, making it too late for many venues to secure permission for Sunday’s match.
Some pubs anticipated England’s progress in the tournament and obtained TEN approvals in advance.
Hospitality sector expresses concern
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said the organisation remains in discussions with the government over the issue.
“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.”
