Photograph by Shine2010
Pubs could be allowed to stay open longer to show the World Cup football matches after David Cameron orders a “rethink” on licensing policies.
The Prime Minister has pushed for a debate on the topic after a number of pubs were refused permission to extend their opening hours in order to show games such as England vs Italy, which kicks off at 23:00 on June 14th.
On Twitter, Cameron said:
I have ordered a rethink on pub opening times for England's World Cup games – will consult with pub trade, police and councils.
— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) February 3, 2014
The pub industry had asked the Home Office to extend closing time for pubs across the UK until 01:00 on the night of the Italy game, the only England game with such a late start-time. However, Home Office minister Norman Baker turned down the proposal for a blanket extension, instead leaving pubs to individually apply for the license extension for £21 each.
The Home Office relaxed licensing rules for the Royal Wedding and Diamond Jubilee, and have the power to do so on occasions of “exceptional international, national or local significance”.
