Cameron calls for rethink on pub World Cup opening hours

03 February 2014 by
Cameron calls for rethink on pub World Cup opening hours

England fans may be able to watch their national team's World Cup opening against Italy in the pub after all, after Prime Minister David Cameron called for a rethink on opening hours.

The Home Office appeared to rule out a request by the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) for extended opening hours for pubs on the opening weekend of the tournament, when England play Italy at 2300 BST on Saturday 14 June.

The BBPA had asked for serving times to be extended from 2300 to 0100 both on the Friday and Saturday of the opening weekend, as well as for the closing weekend on 11 and 12 July, warning that it said it would cost pubs a total of £738,000 if they all applied for individual licences.

But the Home Office responded by saying the World Cup was not a "one-off" event like the Queen's Jubilee.

Now, however the BBC is reporting that "Downing Street sources" confirmed that pubs would be allowed to stay open during England's game against Italy.

A No 10 source told the broadcaster: "We'll now consult with the pub industry, police and councils on best way to make sure pubs can be open for the Italy game at 11pm."

Plans to extend World Cup pub opening hours blocked >>

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