UK government considers pub hours extension for England's late World Cup match

The UK government is considering relaxing licensing laws to allow pubs to stay open late for England's World Cup round-of-16 match against Mexico, which kicks off at 1am UK time on Monday. The match, to be played at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, could last until 3am or later if extra time and penalties are needed.

Earlier on Thursday, Business Minister Kate Dearden told the House of Commons that opening times would not be extended beyond existing relaxations. However, BBC News understands that the Prime Minister is now reconsidering that stance after pressure from MPs and the pub industry.

Current licensing rules

In April, the government extended licensing hours for World Cup games with evening kick-offs. Pubs can currently open until 1am for matches starting between 5pm and 9pm, and until 2am for games kicking off after 9pm. However, the 1am start on Monday falls outside those provisions.

• Pubs can apply for a Temporary Event Notice (TEN) to stay open late, but these must be submitted at least five working days in advance.
• Liberal Democrat MP Max Wilkinson called for a blanket extension, saying pubs would miss a revenue opportunity.
• Local Government Secretary Steve Reed has written to councils urging them to approve late-opening applications.
• Emma McClarkin of the British Beer and Pub Association warned it would be a 'crying shame' if fans couldn't watch the match in pubs.

The Local Government Association said councils would make decisions based on local conditions. Some pubs had already planned ahead and secured TENs for potential England matches later in the tournament.

What's next

The government is expected to announce a decision shortly. If an extension is granted, it would allow fans to gather in pubs for what could be a historic match as England seek to progress in the World Cup.