UK boozers are likely to stay open later during the Euros, it has been revealed.
Drinkers will be able to soak up all the glory of a summer tournament deeper into the night, following comments from Home Secretary James Cleverly. The Tory politician on Tuesday (April 30) hinted that he would look into getting pubs clearance to keep pouring beyond normal kickout time.
His comments come as England go into the Germany tournament among the favourites to end 58 years of hurt. Appearing on Never Mind The Ballots, Mr Cleverly said "I will certainly look into it."
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Now, according to the Sun, he is expected to make a formal announcement on Tuesday (May 7). If the plans go ahead, pubs could be allowed to stay open until 1am if any of the home nations make it through to the semi-finals or beyond. Germany, which is hosting the tournament, is one hour ahead of the UK – meaning fans will be able to crack on with the beers without fear of being given the boot before matches go to extra time or penalties.
Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association said late closure of the pubs would ensure Brits a “bumper summer” – and noted it would help the nation’s pubs after what has been a brutally trying time, with the cost of living crisis and Covid-19 combining with multiple other factors forcing pubs into survival mode.
She said: “The Government consultation looking into allowing pubs to extend their hours to cover the semi-final and the final during the upcoming Euros is something that received overwhelming support and we look forward to the Government now putting in place the regulations needed as soon as possible.
“Reducing the red tape that pubs would otherwise have to undertake is one of the little ways that the Government can reduce some of the costs of doing business.
“There are many more, but with this easement the beer and pub sector is looking forward to a bumper summer of sport and let’s hope that pubgoers can enjoy these extended hours, especially if England and Scotland get to the semis and maybe even meet in the final.”
The Three Lions will be among the teams competing in the tournament after being runners-up to Italy the last time out at Euro 2020, causing heartbreak across the nation.
On the route to the finals this year, skipper Harry Kane netted eight times, while young stars Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham go into the competition in fine form. Scotland are also set to appear at Euro 2024, with star players John McGinn and Andy Robertson both currently fit and ready to play.
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