Commenting on The Prime Minister’s intervention regarding the late opening of pubs during the World Cup, Brigid Simmonds, BBPA Chief Executive, comments:
“This would make for the most fantastic news for thousands of publicans and millions of football fans. I am delighted that the Prime Minister has intervened to back Britain’s pubs and make clear that England’s World Cup campaign is a time for celebration.
“This common sense decision would remove a great deal of bureaucracy for pubs and local councils – and makes clear that the best place to enjoy the England team’s journey is in your local pub.
“We are absolutely thrilled that our efforts have made a real difference for football fans and pubs.”
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Notes to editors:
The BBPA has twice asked the Home Office to extend pub opening hours for the World Cup 2014, and is awaiting a response from the Home Office to their request to extend the hours of England’s opening game against Italy which begins at 11pm UK time.
The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) has produced definitive guidance for pubs, to help ensure that this year’s World Cup screenings are a success, which can be downloaded here. The new advice has been developed with the support of the Local Government Association (LGA) and the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO). Live sport is now a hugely important part of the pub experience – the BBPA says that around four million people headed to their local in 2010 to watch the first England World Cup game, clearly showing preparation for Brazil 2014 is now essential for licensees.
The guidance is intended as a template for pubs, local authorities and police to work together to ensure that the World Cup is a successful and enjoyable occasion. It provides a handy checklist for licensees to run through in making sure all angles to running a successful event are considered and covered.
The British Beer & Pub Association is the UK’s leading organisation representing the brewing and pub sector. Its members account for 96 per cent of the beer brewed in the UK and around half of Britain’s 49,500 pubs.
For further information please contact:
Neil Williams, Head of Media Tel: (020) 7627 9156 / 07974 249 779
Gareth Barrett, Public Affairs Manager Tel: (020) 7627 9154
Sophie McIntyre, Communications & Campaigns Officer Tel: (020) 7627 9155
Neil Williams
Head of Media
British Beer & Pub Association
020 7627 9156
07974 249 779