Pubs could be given an extra two hours of serving
Pubs could be allowed to stay open until 1am next June to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.
Under the draft government plan, venues across England and Wales would be allowed to continue serving customers for an extra two hours to celebrate the 70th anniversary of her reign.
This would be over the extended bank holiday weekend from Thursday June 2 to Saturday June 4.
It would be just one of the ways that the country is set to celebrate the Queen becoming the first British sovereign to have been on the throne for seven decades.
Minister have already promised a show mixing ‘ceremonial splendour’ with ‘technological displays’ to mark the historic milestone.
Other events planned for the bank holiday weekend include a live concert featuring some of the world’s biggest artists, a day at the races, and a Platinum Jubilee Pageant in London. This involved more than 5,000 people from across the UK and Commonwealth and take place against the backdrop of Buckingham Palace and the surrounding streets, combining street arts, theatre, music and circus.
Section 172 of the Licensing Act 2003 allows Home Secretary Priti Patel to lay an order giving permission for premises to stay open longer to mark occasions of exceptional significance.
This will be subject to a month-long public consultation during which people can submit their views. Issues raised by stakeholders, such as the police, licensing authorities and alcohol awareness groups will also be taken into consideration.
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Previous national events that have seen the Government extend opening times include the 2011 and 2018 royal weddings, the Queen’s 90th birthday in 2016, and the Fifa World Cup in 2014.
Although the bank holiday weekend and celebrations are not until the summer, it is on February 6 that the Queen will become the first British monarch to rule for 70 years.
Patel said: “Her Majesty the Queen is an example to us all – she has served the UK and the Commonwealth with the utmost dignity, steadfastness and resolve throughout her remarkable reign.
“The Platinum Jubilee is a truly historic occasion, and it is right that the country should mark this celebration in a special way.
“This extension will enable families, friends and communities across England and Wales to raise a glass to toast Her Majesty the Queen and mark her incredible service to our country.”
Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries said: “Next year we will celebrate an unprecedented milestone in our national life.
“No other British monarch has served for 70 years and it is fitting that, as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June, we toast Her Majesty for her dedication and service.”
