BBPA supports licensing hours extension bill
BBPA co-hosted the drop-in event with Labour MP for South Shields Emma Lewell-Buck ahead of the second reading of her private member’s bill on 19 January.
Parliament saw a display of cross-party support as MPs came out in force to show their support for the private member’s bill.
The Licensing Hours Extensions Bill will allow the Government to grant temporary easement to licensing restrictions on pubs, and other venues serving alcohol, at times of national significance when Parliament is in recess.
Lewell-Buck said: “Pubs are at the heart of our communities, its where we come together to celebrate important events with our friends and families.
But the sector has faced a tough few years and it deserves a boost. My bill would make it easier for hospitality venues to extend opening hours during national events such as the Euros later this year, keeping pubs happy, customers happy and giving a boost to local economies".
Cross-party support
The bill is gaining cross-party support in the House of Commons ahead of the second reading.
Many members of parliament were aware of the issues faced by pubs last summer at the Women’s Football World Cup, when establishments were restricted during the biggest game in the Lionesses’ history.
The bill will ensure future sporting and cultural events can be enjoyed unencumbered in pubs around the country who will receive special licenses to open especially for such events.
BBPA chief executive Emma McClarkin said: “We were proud to support Emma Lewell-Buck and her team in their campaign to extend licensing hours at her recent event in Parliament."
Step in the right direction
She added: “This Licensing Hours Extensions Bill is a huge step in the right direction to ensure that licensed premises can trade during large events that happen in other time zones, such as sporting world cups.
“The Bill has strong cross-party support and backing from leading figures within the beer and pub industry. We will be supporting Emma and her team throughout the process to ensure this legislation is enacted.”
Following the second reading of the bill, the bill will now undergo committee scrutiny before it receives it final third reading in the House of Commons. Assuming it passes, it will they undergo a similar process in the House of Lords.
