Licensing hours extension for King’s coronation ‘timely boost’

06-Mar-2023 - Last updated on 06-Mar-2023 at 12:05 GMT

Celebration occasion: the legislation permits pubs to extend their trading hours over the coronation weekend (image: Getty/mrPliskin)

The Government has announced licensing hours for pubs, clubs and bars across the King’s coronation weekend will be extended by two hours.

The extension, from 11pm to 1am, will cover the Friday 5, Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 May 2023, across the bank holiday coronation weekend.

The legislation is set to be laid before parliament today (Monday 6 March) and will mean the occasion can be celebrated for an extra two hours.

Momentous occasion

Home secretary Suella Braverman said: “His Majesty The King’s coronation will be a momentous occasion deserving of special celebration.

“That is why I am extending the licensing hours over this historic coronation weekend. Up and down the country, people can enjoy an extra pint or two in the evening while families and friends can come together to wish His Majesty The King a long and happy reign.”

The move came following a month-long consultation on a proposal for the extension of the licensing hours where more than three quarters (77%) of the public were in favour of the longer opening.

Timely boost

British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) chief executive Emma McClarkin lauded the announcement.

She said: “This is a timely boost for the pub industry. In the midst of an acutely challenging period I am sure our pubs will look to mark this joyous occasion by hosting special events and parties as part of national celebrations.

“The announcement of extended opening hours will help us all to mark this important event.

“It is sure to be a time for community and celebration and the great British pub is always right at the heart of both, so I would encourage everyone to head down to their local and raise a toast to His Majesty during the coronation weekend.”

Hospitality will be at the heart of the celebrations, UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said.

She added: "It's fantastic news the Government has recognised the boost an extension to licensing hours will offer businesses across the country.

"Venues are well-known for being central to historic celebrations in our communities and this extension to opening hours will ensure that long tradition continues this May with the King's coronation."