Government proposed relaxation of licensing laws for Euro 2024 becomes law

Following the announcement of the General Election last week, the Conservative Government on Friday formalised the proposed statutory instrument to extend licensable hours if England and/or Scotland progress to at least the semi-finals of the UEFA Euro 2024 Tournament this summer.

The Order came into force on Monday 25^th and will permit on-licensed premises already licensed to sell alcohol until at least 11pm to benefit from an automatic extension to these hours until 1am the following morning. This extension is automatic and is wholly contingent on England or Scotland reaching either the semi or the final. The extension does not apply to any other team. Late-night refreshment will only be extended in premises also licensed for on-sales of alcohol.

The relaxation applies to premises in England and Wales only, and does not apply to off-sales of alcohol or regulated entertainment.

Further, if a premises is already licensed until 1am on that date, they will not attain any benefit.

If you require any advice on this Order, please contact Felix Faulkner.

To see the full Order please click here.