politics
England Pubs Allowed to Stay Open Until 5 a.m. for World Cup Match
Pubs in England and Wales received permission to remain open until 05:00 on Monday for the England versus Mexico round-of-16 match. The government reversed an earlier decision after the prime minister announced the extension on Thursday.
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The round-of-16 game kicks off at 01:00 UK time in Mexico City and is not expected to finish until after 03:00.
The government had initially said it would not relax licensing laws further than already extended for the tournament. In a later announcement on Thursday, the prime minister said pubs could stay open until the final whistle. Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said the best place to watch the match is down the local.
Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, called the extension fantastic news that would be hugely welcomed by operators. The motoring organisation RAC warned that people who stay up should not drive until fully rested and hydrated.
Its spokesperson Rod Dennis said tiredness, dehydration and alcohol can be a lethal combination behind the wheel. Employers were advised to set clear expectations for Monday's work day. David D'Souza, director of profession at the CIPD, said employers are under no obligation to make special arrangements around World Cup matches.
Licensing hours had already been extended from 23:00 to 01:00 for games kicking off between 17:00 and 21:00, and until 02:00 for later kick-offs. Individual pubs normally must apply to their local council for extended hours at least five working days in advance.
