Starmer considers letting pubs stay open for England v Mexico match after backlash | Pubs
Keir Starmer is exploring ways to keep pubs open until the early hours of Monday after facing backlash over strict licensing rules that will force many venues to close during England’s next World Cup match.
The team’s win over the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday night means a last-16 tie with Mexico, which will last until at least 3am UK time.
The government had already relaxed licensing rules to reflect the time difference with the United States, Mexico and Canada. For matches that will start between 17.00 and 21.00, bars will be able to stay open until 01.00 at night. For kick-offs after 21:00, they can remain open until 02:00.
However, in order to remain open beyond these hours, venues must apply for a temporary event notification at least five business days in advance. Bars that do not expect England to reach this stage of the tournament will no longer be able to apply.
Business Secretary Kate Dearden said the government would “unfortunately” not be easing the rules further to cover Monday morning’s game.
“Bars may remain open for an additional two or three hours depending on the match start time,” he said. “Unfortunately this does not apply to the 1am start, but we are absolutely behind our pubs moving forward so we can support our children.”
But the Guardian understands the prime minister is exploring whether and how pubs should be allowed to remain open.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan is among senior political figures calling for an urgent extension of licensing hours.
A spokesman said: “The mayor is calling on local authorities in the capital to work closely with the hospitality industry to allow pubs to stay open until the early hours of Monday morning, so Londoners can support our pubs and cheer on England against Mexico.”
A Labor MP described the government’s response as “desperate” and added: “These are mostly small independent businesses.” [that] “We will be caught in this situation.”
Jason Cleary, who runs The Hodcarrier pub in Leamington Spa, said an application to stay open late for the potential fixture was rejected for “failing five working days’ notice”.
Warwick district council has said it cannot legally consider temporary event notices submitted outside the statutory notice period of five working days.
Walthamstow Labor (Co-op) MP Stella Creasy said pubs in her constituency were struggling.
“Independent breweries, for example Blackhorse Beer Mile Those in Walthamstow are the lifeblood of communities like mine. “Councils and ministers must find a way to resolve this so they can continue to deliver a great fan experience and support them to help us cheer on England at home rather than being stuck out on the streets.”
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “We are in close contact with the government regarding concerns raised by broadcasters who want to show the match but have no provisional event announcements. It would be a huge shame for fans and pubs if our local community could not host such an important match.”
