Decision on pubs staying open late made as England Lionesses and Wales prepare for Euro 2025
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Parliament approved plans to keep pubs open late
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Parliament has approved extended pub opening hours until 1am for England and Wales matches if either nation reaches the semi-finals or final of the UEFA Women's European Championships in Switzerland this July.
The temporary extension from the usual 11pm closing time will apply to the semi-finals on 22 and 23 July, and the final on 27 July, but only if at least one home nation progresses that far.
MPs agreed to the measure without division, with the Home Office describing the tournament as an event of "exceptional national significance".
The decision marks another recognition of women's football's growing prominence in British sporting culture.
The Lionesses won the last Euros in 2022
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Policing minister Dame Diana Johnson championed the move, stating: "Nothing quite brings people together like watching our national football teams. We want fans to enjoy every minute of these matches."
The minister noted that venues "stand to benefit from this modest extension which would allow them to accommodate increased demand during these high-profile fixtures".
She acknowledged the hospitality sector's recent difficulties, calling this "a helpful measure".
Sarina Wiegman is looking for her third European Championship title, after winning it with Netherlands in 2017 and England in 2022
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Dame Diana drew laughter from MPs when she observed: "I have to say, from my limited following of football, it seems like the women's teams have a reputation for doing far better than our male teams."
Industry leaders welcomed the decision as recognition of women's football's cultural significance.
Michael Kill, chief executive of the Night Time Industries Association, called it "a positive and progressive move that recognises the growing popularity of women's football and its cultural significance across the UK".
Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, declared: "The pub is the home of live sport.
"Our sector plays a huge part in boosting community spirit and extending licensing hours means people can gather for longer and host even more events that cheer on our squads."
A Home Office consultation revealed 87 per cent of respondents backed the proposed extension for the semi-finals, with 84% supporting it for the final.
England fans will be pleased at the news pubs will be open late if England and Wales progress
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The tournament runs from 2 to 27 July in Switzerland, with England entering as defending champions after their triumphant 2022 victory at Wembley.
Wales have qualified for their first Women's European Championships.
Both home nations have been drawn in Group D alongside France and the Netherlands, who England boss Sarina Weigman managed previously.
The Lionesses face France on 5 July whilst Wales play the Netherlands the same day.
The teams meet each other on 13 July, with England playing the Netherlands and Wales facing France on 9 July.
Conservative MP Andrew Snowden expressed confidence in England's chances, noting their "magnificent performance" in 2022 when they defeated Germany 2-1.