To mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), the government has confirmed that pubs in England and Wales will be able to extend their opening hours until 01:00 BST. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that pubs and bars, which typically close at 23:00, will have the opportunity to serve customers for an additional two hours on Thursday 8 May. This initiative aims to allow people to partake in celebrations and toast to the men and women who served their country during World War Two.
VE Day, commemorated on 8 May each year, signifies Nazi Germany’s surrender to the Allied forces in Europe during World War Two. Sir Keir emphasized the importance of the nation uniting on this day to honor the sacrifices made by the wartime generation and to celebrate the peace and freedom they secured. The Home Office will present an order to Parliament seeking approval for the extension of pub licensing hours, a move that has been well-received by the hospitality industry.
Michael Kill, the chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to extend trading hours during the celebrations, acknowledging the significance of remembering history while offering support to struggling businesses in the hospitality sector. Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, highlighted the role of pubs as a communal space for raising a glass in tribute to those who made sacrifices for freedom. The upcoming VE Day commemorations, starting with a military procession on the Early May Bank Holiday and culminating in a live concert on 8 May, will be broadcast live on BBC One for all to participate in and remember
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