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New Order to provide certainty to pubs

A new Order will enable pubs to remain open until 30 minutes after the conclusion of England games, even if kickoff is delayed

The delayed kick off in England’s last match against Mexico led to huge uncertainty as to exactly what hours licensees were permitted to sell alcohol.  

The wording of the Order extending licences was so specific that there didn’t appear to be any provision if the game in question didn’t kick off at its original scheduled time.

As is being widely reported, the Government will be updating the Order to address this and provide certainty for all licensees, customers and the authorities.

Now, if an England game is delayed due to weather, the hours for the sale of alcohol (and late night refreshment) are extended until 30 minutes after the game ends or noon the following day whichever is the earlier. If the game is postponed a new Order will be issued to cover the rearranged game.

Whilst the amended Order is yet to be published, we understand that if your Premises Licence permits the sale of alcohol for consumption on the premises to at least 11pm tonight the Order will apply to you.

We will confirm as soon as we become aware that the Order is actually in force.

For more information, please feel free to contact any of our licensing solicitors on 0115 953 8500.

About the author: Nick Landells

Nick Landells is a Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives. He joined Poppleston Allen in 2001. After a 10-year career break in Canada, he rejoined the firm in October 2023.

Nick supports Partner, Jonathan Smith in advising clients in all aspects of the Licensing Act 2003. Nick has expertise in issuing new licensing applications, dealing with premises licence reviews, appeals and has extensive knowledge of High Court matters.

The clients Nick works closely with are:-

  • Booths Supermarkets
  • Bourne Leisure
  • Leons
  • Park Dean
  • Park Holidays
  • Vue Cinema

Nick is also an accredited trainer with both the Institute of Licensing and British Institute of Innkeeping.

Read more about Nick

Nick Landells

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