Ministers have declined to permit a nationwide extension of pub operating hours for this Sunday’s World Cup match between England and Mexico. Because the game kicks off at 1 a.m. UK time in Mexico City, Liberal Democrat MP Max Wilkinson urged the government to relax licensing laws, arguing that local businesses would miss a significant financial boost.
Business Minister Kate Dearden confirmed the government will not grant a blanket extension for this specific 1 a.m. start. She noted that while previous adjustments allowed pubs to remain open for matches starting between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m., these rules do not extend to such a late-night fixture. Pubs that did not secure a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) at least five working days in advance will be unable to operate during the match hours, unless they already had authorization in place.
Emma McClarkin, head of the British Beer and Pub Association, stated they are maintaining communication with officials to address the concerns of publicans who missed the window to apply for late-opening permits. She expressed disappointment that some establishments will be unable to host the event for their customers.
