World Cup: Police criticise timing of decision on pubs staying open for England match

The police have expressed concerns over the government’s last-minute decision to allow pubs in England to remain open until 5:00 AM BST on Monday for the World Cup match against Mexico. The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) highlighted that the timing of the announcement forces officers to be reassigned from other duties and to work extended hours, despite the fact that England’s potential path in the tournament has been known for some time. In their appeal to football fans, the NPCC urged people to “drink within sensible limits” and to act considerately as they watch this crucial knockout fixture, where the losing side will be eliminated.

The government explained that the original relaxation of licensing restrictions for the World Cup did not account for England playing such a late fixture. A Downing Street spokeswoman noted that the government made the decision “as quickly as possible” after England secured their place in the round of 16 on Wednesday evening. She also emphasized ongoing communication with police forces, expressing gratitude for their adaptability and professionalism throughout the tournament’s preparations. The game is scheduled to kick off at 1:00 AM UK time and could finish around 3:00 AM, or even later if it goes to penalties.

Historically, knockout matches have been linked to rises in violent incidents and cases of domestic abuse, often associated with excessive alcohol consumption, according to the NPCC’s football and alcohol policing leads. They pledged to collaborate with venues and partners to ensure a “safe and enjoyable evening” for everyone. Initially, the government resisted extending the already relaxed licensing hours for World Cup matches, but Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced late Thursday that pubs could stay open through the game on Monday. Local Government Secretary Steve Reed described the change as “one of the fastest changes in the law that we’ve seen,” noting the original measures did not anticipate England playing so late into the night.

The hospitality industry has welcomed the extension. Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said, “We all know the best place to watch the match is down the local.” Michael Kill, head of the Night Time Industries Association, called the announcement “fantastic news” that operators would greatly appreciate. Several pub chains are preparing for the late-night crowd, with Greene King planning to keep over 600 pubs open, and Marston’s more than 400. Priyesh Bathia, landlord of the Elephant and Barrel in Stockwell, south London, expressed gratitude for the late license and said they already have 100 to 150 bookings for the event.

Not every pub has opted to open for the match, however. Miranda Richardson, licensee at The Squirrels in Duston, Northamptonshire, decided against opening. She explained her choice was straightforward, citing concerns about noise and disruption for the village community late at night, as well as staffing challenges due to additional costs for unsociable hours and difficulties in assembling a working team. She also mentioned that most of her customers preferred watching the match from home.

Unions have urged employers to accommodate flexible working arrangements on Monday, with TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak asking businesses to “show some common sense and understanding” by permitting remote work or later starts where feasible. However, the British Chambers of Commerce highlighted that certain sectors such as manufacturing, frontline retail, and hospitality might find flexible arrangements challenging. Their policy director, Kate Shoesmith, expressed confidence that most employers would try to strike a balance to support their staff.

England’s head coach Thomas Tuchel encouraged parents to allow their children to stay up late for the game, noting, “There’s so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch.” Meanwhile, Daniel Kebede of the National Education Union called for a “bit of a flexible start” to school on Monday. Education Secretary Bridget Philipson, however, refrained from instructing parents on bedtimes but urged that children attend school the following day. The RAC also issued a warning for those staying up late, advising that drivers should only get behind the wheel once they are fully rested and hydrated. With hot weather forecasted for the weekend, they warned of increased dehydration risks, especially when combined with alcohol consumption

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