CAMRA has backed proposals to relax licensing hours in England and Wales if the home nations get through to the latter stages of the men’s UEFA European Championships this summer.  

The plan, which is out for consultation, says if England, Wales or Scotland reach the semi-final in the tournament, followed by the final, then pubs in England and Wales would be allowed to extend their opening hours to 1am.

CAMRA pub and club campaigns director Gary Timmins said: “Cheering on your team, in the atmosphere of the pub, surrounded by friends is an experience that cannot be had anywhere else. CAMRA believes that your pub, social club or taproom is the best place to drink real ale, cider and perry, not simply for the social experience but also due to the staff and licensees who run these venues.” 

Currently, plans like this can take up to six months to be passed, but this may change if the Licensing Hours Extension Bill, sponsored by MP Emma Lewell-Buck, is passed as it aims to make the process simpler.   

CAMRA backs the bill. Timmins said: “Creating a more responsive mechanism for licensing hours alterations would boost local economies with additional sales and help create a sense of community as pub-goers are able to celebrate the full range and diversity of British sporting achievement.”