Euro 2024: Pubs can open late for England and Scotland fans ‘to get properly on the lash’

An order to extend licensing hours during the Euros football tournament, that will enable “people to get properly on the lash”, has passed through the House of Lords and is ready for royal assent.

The order to the Licensing Act 2003 (UEFA European Football Championship Licensing Hours) will extend sales of alcohol if either England or Scotland reach the semi-final or the final of the Euros, meaning premises will be allowed to remain open until 1am without having to notify the licensing authority.

Conservative peer Lord Sharpe of Epsom told the Lords: “So much of the business at the Home Offices is difficult, so it gives me particular pleasure that my last outing basically enables people to get properly on the lash. My Lords, please drink responsibly.”

Earlier, Lord Sharpe said existing legislation facilitated relaxed opening hours “to mark occasions of exceptional international, national or local significance”.

He said: “And as I hope Your Lordships will agree, the progression of England and Scotland to the late stages of the competition would represent just such an occasion.

“Should that happen, people will want to come together in celebration and support of the home nation teams.”