Pubs Push for Dawn Drinks as Lionesses Eye World Cup Glory
As the Lionesses prepare to challenge Spain in the World Cup final this Sunday, anticipation runs high across the UK. England’s pubs, sensing the national fervor, have urged the government to ease licensing regulations for the occasion.
The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA), representing over 20,000 pubs, is pressing officials to sanction alcohol sales from 10am on match day, celebrating the England women’s team’s first World Cup final in nearly six decades.
While pubs can opt to open earlier, most licenses restrict alcohol sales until 11am on Sundays. With the game’s significance, the BBPA is advocating for swift regulatory adjustment, enabling pubs to accommodate eager fans.
Cornwall’s authorities, taking initiative, have declared non-enforcement of early trade restrictions.
Special events occasionally prompt alterations to the licensing laws in England and Wales, necessitating approval from both Houses of Parliament. Notably, such changes were made for events like the Platinum Jubilee and the Euro 2020 final.
Alun Cairns MP commented on the issue, emphasizing the dual support for the Lionesses and UK pubs. Emma McClarkin, BBPA’s CEO, stressed the importance of community gatherings at pubs during pivotal moments like these, urging the government to act in favor of earlier serving hours for the final.
