The Home Office has announced that pubs will be allowed to stay open until 01:00 BST if England or Wales make it to the final stages of the Uefa Women’s European Championships. The usual closing time of 23:00 will be extended in the event of either home nation reaching the semi-finals or final of the tournament, which is set to take place from 2-27 July in Switzerland to celebrate an event of “exceptional national significance”.
England, the defending champions, and Wales, who have qualified for the first time, have both been drawn in the same group for the tournament. Policing minister Dame Diana Johnson emphasized the unifying nature of watching national football teams, stating, “Nothing quite brings people together like watching our national football teams.” The aim is for fans to relish every minute of these matches.
The semi-finals of the championship will occur on 22 and 23 July, with the final slated for 27 July in Basel. Wales will kick off the competition for the home nations by facing the Netherlands on 5 July, while the Lionesses will also be in action against France on the same day. Pub opening hours were similarly prolonged for the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day earlier this month, as well as for the semi-final and final matches of the men’s Euros last year.
The decision to extend pub hours for such events has been lauded as a positive and forward-thinking step that acknowledges the increasing popularity of women’s football and its cultural significance throughout the UK. Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, remarked on the progressive move, while British Beer and Pub Association chief executive Emma McClarkin emphasized the role of pubs as the heart of live sport and community spirit. The extended licensing hours will allow people to come together for longer periods and host more events to support their teams
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