Euro 2024: Pubs could open later for England and Scotland fans 'to get really drunk'

Pubs could stay open late if England or Scotland reach the semi-finals or finals of the Euros. Photo: Benjamin Kremel/Getty

An order to extend licensing hours during the Euro football tournament, which will allow “people to get a good lashing”, has passed through the House of Lords and is ready for royal assent.

Order to Law The Licensing Act 2003 (UEFA European Football Championship Licensing Hours) will extend alcohol sales if England or Scotland reach the semi-finals or finals of the Euros, meaning establishments will be allowed to stay open until 1am without having to notify the licensing authority.

Conservative peer Lord Sharp of Epsom told the Lords: “Much of the business at the Home Office is difficult, so it gives me particular pleasure that my latest trip is basically enabling people to get their eyelashes right. My Lords, please drink responsibly.”

Lord Sharp previously said that current legislation encourages relaxation of opening hours “to mark events of exceptional international, national or local significance.”

He said: “And, as I hope your Lordships will agree, England's progress and Scotland's entry into the latter stages of the competition will be just such an occasion.

“If that happens, people will want to get together to celebrate and support the host nation's teams.”

Lord Sharp said that during the Home Office consultation, more than 80 per cent of respondents were in favor of expanded licensing.

Police 'not supportive'

He added: 'However, I would be remiss not to mention that police are not supportive of extending licensing hours given the potential for increased unrest.'

“Deploying police and resourcing them are operational matters, of course, but I am confident that the force will, as in the past, put plans in place to minimize the risk.

“It is also worth noting that this is a limited two-hour extension actions licensing hours, which is a proportionate approach to designating these events.”

Lord Addington, a fellow Liberal Democrat, said the measures were “very sensible and set a good precedent for additional celebrations of a major occasion”.

He thanked his colleagues for their work in the current session of Parliament and wished them well in general election, saying: “[I] hope no one here gets bitten by a dog while distributing a leaflet.”

Extended hours will only apply if England or Scotland reach the Euro semi-finals or finals. and only on the day of the game of these teams.

They also will not apply to businesses that sell alcohol. for consumption outside premises such as supermarkets and off licence.

Euro 2024 begins on Friday 15 June when Scotland hosts Germany. The semi-finals will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday, July 9-10, with the final on Sunday, July 14.