Pubs will open late if Lionesses reach Euros semi-finals in huge win for fans
Pubs have been granted extra time to stay open if the Lionesses reach this year's Euros semi-finals.
MPs have agreed to allow bars to sell alcohol until 1am if either England or Wales play in the European Championship semi-finals or finals next month.
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Policing minister Dame Diana Johnson said venues "stand to benefit" from the later closing time, which is extended from the usual 11pm cut-off.
Tory MP Andrew Snowden joked that his father might "disown" him, had his party not backed the Government's proposal.
The Lionesses were hailed as "inspirational" when they won the same tournament in 2022, beating fierce rivals Germany 2-1 in front of a sold-out Wembley Stadium.
Substitute Chloe Kelly fired the Lionesses to glory — and tore off her shirt to celebrate as the nation erupted in joy.
The 24-year-old striker's wild celebration of her historic strike will live in the memory.
Manchester City star Chloe wheeled away toward the touchline in her white sports bra as she helped bring football home - 56 years after the men's 1966 World Cup triumph.
But pubs have been warned that they will have to stick to their ordinary timings if neither team manages to reach the final stages of the "prestigious tournament".
The semi-finals are set to take place on July 22 and 23, with the final on July 27.
Speaking in the Commons today, Dame Diana said: "[Pubs] stand to benefit from this modest extension which would allow them to accommodate increased demand during these high-profile fixtures.
"If neither England nor Wales reach the semi-finals, the proposed extension will not apply on July 22 or 23.
"Similarly, if one or both teams reach the semi-finals but do not progress to the final, normal licensing hours will apply on July 27.
"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.
"I fully accept that the hospitality sector has had a difficult time over the last few years and this is a helpful measure.
"It is right to acknowledge as well that police representatives have expressed some concerns regarding the potential for increased crime and disorder.
"Now, whilst operational decisions on deployment and resourcing are a matter for individual forces, I am confident that appropriate measures will be taken to mitigate any risks, as has happened in similar cases.
"Notably, there have been no significant incidents of large-scale disorder linked to previous licensing extensions, which I think is testament to the professionalism of our police service, to whom we owe our thanks."
Mr Snowden, the MP for Fylde, said the Conservatives were "delighted" to support the temporary changes.
He added: "I don't think I would have much choice on this matter, as if I ever stood at this dispatch box and opposed more time in the pub to watch football, my dad would probably disown me.
"We are the defending champions of the Women's Uefa cup after England 's magnificent performance at the 2022 tournament hosted here in the UK at Wembley.
"The final saw a 2-1 victory, and of course in football, it was made all the sweeter by beating the Germans.
"So this is a fantastic time to support your local as well as your national."
England and Wales face each other on July 13, with both nations in Group D alongside France and the Netherlands.
The Lionesses will face France on July 5 when Wales play the Netherlands.
On July 9, England will play the Netherlands while Wales face France.
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