Pubs plead to serve alcohol early for Lionesses Women's World Cup final
Pubs have demanded the right to serve alcohol earlier than normal on Sunday as millions enjoy the Lionesses' incredible World Cup success.
Most venues are not allowed to serve pints until 11am on Sundays - the same time England kick off in the final in Australia. Industry chiefs called on the Government to do everything possible to ensure they can serve alcoholic drinks before the game starts.
It had been feared that MPs would have to be recalled to Parliament in order to make it happen, but The Mirror now understands local authorities can agree to one-off changes - but may not be able to do so in time. Fans are expected to pack into pubs and bars to watch Sarina Wiegman's team battle to lift a second major trophy in two years.
England's Women's team are hoping to make history in Australia (The FA via Getty Images)The British Beer and Pub Association, which represents more than 20,000 boozers, wants to see rules relaxed as soon as possible. Tory MP Alun Cairns, who chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group said: " Early opening and serving would be a fitting tribute to the Lionesses and a welcome boost to the industry.
"I have raised the issue with the Home Secretary directly who is looking in to see what is possible. We need to do all we can to support the team, whilst at the same time backing our great British pubs.”
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Complex trading rules mean some venues are able to open earlier than others, and Wetherspoons told The Mirror it will be serving alcoholic drinks from 9am on Sunday. Ministers face pressure to ensure there is a level playing field on the big day.
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the BBPA said: “Millions of people have been cheering on our amazing Lionesses throughout this tournament at their local pub, enjoying the unrivalled pub atmosphere and communal celebrations. Now, as England enter their first World Cup Final since 1966 we need the Government to step in and allow the necessary regulatory easement to allow pubs to serve the public from 10am on final day." She added: "Where there’s a will, there has to be a way."
Millions of football fans are expected to tune in on Sunday (AFP via Getty Images)Greg Mulholland, campaign director at the Campaign for Pubs, told The Mirror that allowing venues to serve alcohol earlier would be "helpful". But he said publicans would be making sure they can cater for fans by opening early and serving non-alcoholic drinks until they are allowed.
"Lots of people are going to want to get together, and many will gravitate to the pub. It would be helpful if pubs were able to serve a pint or a glass of wine at that time, but pubs will be finding a way to encourage people to watch the game there.
"If it's possible to do it, it would be helpful, but I'm sure will go to the pub anyway and really get the atmosphere."
Sunday’s game is the first World Cup final England have reached in almost 60 years, and gives the chance for England, for the first time in the nation’s history, to become both World and European Champions.
The BBPA, which represents over 20,000 pubs, is calling on the Government to do whatever must be done to change this regulation as fast as possible so pubs can prepare to serve the public, and fans can enjoy the communal experience of supporting England in a World Cup final among their fellow fans.
For previous big events, such as the Euro 2020 final, licensing laws have been temporarily changed after approval by MPs and peers - but there are no plans to recall Parliament. However individual pubs can apply for special exemptions to their local authorities.
This process can take several days, however, sparking calls for the system to be fast-tracked.
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