England fans can drink till 5 a.m. for Mexico World Cup game after government intervenes

Key Points:

• England’s pubs and bars in England and Wales will be allowed to stay open until 5 a.m. on Sunday to accommodate fans watching the World Cup match against Mexico, following an emergency legal measure announced by outgoing Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
• The late-night extension responds to the 1 a.m. kickoff time in Britain, which raised concerns among publicans about licensing laws that normally require venues to stop serving alcohol by 11 p.m.; this move follows earlier relaxations allowing service until 2 a.m. for earlier matches.
• Police chiefs expressed concern over the extended drinking hours, warning of potential increases in violent incidents and domestic abuse linked to alcohol consumption during knockout games, and criticized the government’s late decision for complicating policing plans.
• Despite calls from England’s coach for children to be excused from school to watch the game, the government has ruled out school closures on Monday, emphasizing that children should attend school as usual.
• The announcement has sparked mixed reactions, with hospitality groups welcoming the boost for businesses, while employers prepare for potential absenteeism on Monday due to late-night celebrations; meanwhile, Starmer is set to step down soon, with his successor likely to take over during the tournament.