UK proposes longer pub opening if UK teams reach Euros semis or final

The extension would be under consideration if any of the UK nations reach the semi-final or final stages of the football tournament.

Umesh Ellichipuram November 28 2023

The UK government has unveiled its plan to extend pub and bar licensing hours for the semi-finals and final of the men’s European Football Championships in 2024.

The extension of licensing hours would be under consideration if any of the UK nations - England, Wales or Scotland - reach the semi-final or final stages of the football tournament.

The UK government has already initiated consultations and has proposed that pub licensing hours in England and Wales would be extended from 11pm to 1am.

The public consultation will run for 12 weeks, and the government will take into account the opinions and views of the public, licensing authorities and the hospitality industry.

UK Home Secretary James Cleverly said: “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.

“That is why we are looking at helping pubs and bars stay open longer if we reach the semi-finals or final, and ensure families, friends and communities can come together to cheer their nation on.”

The UK Home Secretary has the authority to extend licensing hours for occasions of “exceptional international, national or local significance”.

Pub licensing hours were extended for the 2020 men’s European Football Championship final and for King Charles' coronation Bank Holiday weekend in May 2023.

The latest proposal, which is subject to public consultation, is expected to provide a boost for the hospitality industry as well as for pubs and bars.

Uncover your next opportunity with expert reports

Steer your business strategy with key data and insights from our latest market research reports and company profiles. Not ready to buy? Start small by downloading a sample report first.

Newsletters by sectors

close

Sign up to the newsletter: In Brief

Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Thank you for subscribing

View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network.

close