BOOZERS will be able to open later if England or Wales reach the finals of the Women’s Euros, the Sun on Sunday can reveal.
Ministers are hatching a plan to extend licensing hours from 11pm to 1am if they reach the semis or final in Switzerland this July.
PAChloe Kelly swirls her shirt above her head after scoring England’s extra-time winner[/caption]
PAEngland’s Leah Williamson and England’s Millie Bright lift the trophy with team-mates after winning the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 final[/caption]
Ministers hope it will give a much needed boost to Britain’s pubs and bars.
England’s Lionesses made history in 2022 with a 2-1 extra-time victory over rivals Germany at a sold-out Wembley.
Policing Minister Dame Diana Johnson said: “The Lionesses showed us in 2022 what it means to bring football home, and now we want to make sure the whole nation can come together again to cheer on our teams.
“These plans will help our pubs and bars stay open longer if England or Wales make it to the final stages, allowing friends and families to celebrate together and providing a welcome boost to our hospitality industry.”
AlamyPolicing Minister Dame Diana Johnson[/caption]
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has the power to extend licensing hours for occasions of “exceptional international, national or local significance”.
Plans will be subject to a four-week public consultation online.
Michael Kill, CEO of the Night Time Industries Association, added: “This is a crucial opportunity for the hospitality sector at a time when many businesses continue to navigate financial challenges.”
UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 runs from 2 to 27 July 2025.
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