England fans get big boost ahead of historic World Cup final in call for early opening hours for pubs

PUB bosses today called on Rishi Sunak to loosen Sunday licensing rules for the Women’s World Cup final.

Hospitality chiefs want boozers to be permitted to sell alcohol before 10am, with the Lionesses set to take on Spain an hour later.

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Pub bosses today called on Rishi Sunak to loosen licensing rules for the Women’s World Cup final[/caption]

Most pubs are banned from selling alcohol in the early morning.

But hospitality chiefs want an exception this Sunday.

Chris Jowsey, chief executive officer of Admiral Taverns, which runs more than 1,600 pubs, said: “We urge the Prime Minister to allow pubs to open at 10am on Sunday to support our Lionesses and bring communities together to cheer on the team.

“It has been inspiring to watch not only their outstanding achievements on the pitch, but the way it has brought the nation together off the pitch.”

Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, added “Millions of people have been cheering on our amazing Lionesses throughout this tournament at their local pub.

“Now, as England enter their first World Cup Final since 1966, we need the government to step in and allow the necessary regulatory easement to allow pubs to serve the public from 10am on final day.

“Where there’s a will, there has to be a way.”

Individual pubs can apply for a temporary licence to serve booze before 11am.

But the process takes a minimum of five working days.

So far there’s no plans from government to make sweeping changes the rules.

MPs today joined calls from the hospitality industry.

The Lib Dems demanded politicians return to Westminster from parliamentary recess so a new law can be passed to change alcohol restrictions on the day.

Lib Dem Deputy Leader Daisy Cooper MP said: “This is an open goal for the government.

“The Lionesses have made history by reaching the final, it’s only right that people across the country can come together and show their full support on Sunday.

“MPs should get down to Westminster tomorrow and score a last minute winner for our pubs and the Lionesses.”

Alun Cairns MP, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group, said: “Early opening and serving would be a fitting tribute to the Lionesses and a welcome boost to the industry.

“I have raised the issue with the Home Secretary directly who is looking in to see what is possible.”