‘Fun police’ must not block World Cup pub screenings, minister warns
Pints fly through air as England fans celebrate late Bellingham equaliser
The UK government is encouraging public celebrations for the upcoming men’s football tournament, urging local authorities to swiftly approve outdoor World Cup screenings and beer garden events.
Communities Secretary Steve Reed has called on councils to avoid being ‘the fun police’ and not obstruct ‘sensible’ outdoor gatherings.
Pubs will be permitted to stay open until 2 am if any of the home nations progress to the knockout stages of the tournament.
Ministers are proposing to reduce bureaucracy for businesses offering ‘pavement pints’ and al-fresco dining by extending the current two-year licence period.
Councils are being asked to quickly process temporary event notices for extended opening hours and special screenings, with the government warning against unnecessarily blocking plans.
