Licensing hours extended to 1am for King's Coronation

The government will give pubs and bars in England and Wales the thumbs up this week for licensing hours to be extended for the King's Coronation, as part of plans to mark the UK-wide Bank Holiday.

The legislation, to be laid today, will see the Home Secretary extend licensing hours in pubs, clubs and bars across England and Wales from 11pm to 1am. The extension will cover 5-7 May, across the Coronation weekend. An additional bank holiday has been confirmed for 8 May.

In a month-long consultation on the extension of licensing hours for the event, 77% of the public backed the move.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman said: "His Majesty The King's Coronation will be a momentous occasion deserving of special celebration. That is why I am extending the licensing hours over this historic Coronation weekend. Up and down the country, people can enjoy an extra pint or two in the evening while families and friends can come together to wish His Majesty The King a long and happy reign."

Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), said: "This is a timely boost for the pub industry. In the midst of an acutely challenging period I am sure our pubs will look to mark this joyous occasion by hosting special events and parties as part of national celebrations. The announcement of extended opening hours will help us all to mark this important event.

"It is sure to be a time for community and celebration and the great British pub is always right at the heart of both, so I would encourage everyone to head down to their local and raise a toast to His Majesty during the Coronation weekend."

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