The National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) has criticised the timing of the government's decision to let pubs stay open until 5am for England's World Cup match against Mexico. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing The Guardian.
Keir Starmer announced yesterday that pubs across England and Wales will be able to stay open late for the match, which kicks off at 1am on Monday.
The government had initially rejected calls to relax licensing laws beyond what it has already allowed. The Home Office granted pubs special dispensation to stay open until 1am for England matches in the knockout stages that kick off between 5pm and 9pm, and until 2am for games that start between 9pm and 10pm.
In a joint statement, chief constable Mark Roberts, NPCC lead for football policing, and acting chief constable Scott Green, NPCC lead for alcohol licensing and harm reduction, said the U-turn on pub opening times meant officers were having to adapt their plans and take officers away from communities.
"We recognise there will be significant public interest in England's match on Monday morning and that many of the public will want to come together in pubs and licensed venues to enjoy the occasion.
We also know from previous tournaments the knock-out games sadly see an increase in violent incidents particularly in the night-time economy and an increase in domestic abuse. This is directly linked to alcohol consumption.
The likely route for England progression has been known for a considerable time yet this late announcement leaves policing having to adapt our plans seeing officers working extended shifts which in turn takes them away from communities.
From a policing perspective, our priority is to support people to enjoy the match safely and responsibly. We therefore ask those watching the game to be considerate – drink within sensible limits, and behave in a way that keeps you, your friends, staff, officers and the wider public safe.
We will continue to work with partners and venues to support a safe and enjoyable evening for everyone."