Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Licences and Licensing 2025-06-19

19 June 2025 · 4 other contributors

Opened by Diana Johnson Lab Halifax

Culture, Media & SportBusiness & Trade

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Diana Johnson raised concerns about licences and licensing 2025-06-19 in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The draft contingent order proposes extending licensing hours in England and Wales if the women's national teams reach the semi-finals or final of the UEFA Women's European Football Championship in July.
  • The public consultation received 87% support for extending hours for semi-finals and 84% for finals.
  • The order allows licensed premises to remain open until 1 am without needing a temporary event notice.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Diana Johnson Lab Halifax

The draft contingent order proposes a temporary extension of licensing hours across England and Wales, should either the England or Wales women’s national teams progress to the semi-finals or final of UEFA Women’s European Football Championship in July. The decision is based on public consultation where 87% supported extending licensing hours for semi-finals and 84% for finals. This will reduce administrative burden on businesses and local authorities, allowing licensed premises to remain open until 1 am without need for temporary event notice.

Other contributors (4)
  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Although the order does not apply to Northern Ireland, he extends best wishes to English and Welsh teams participating in UEFA Women’s European Football Championship.

  • Chris Vince Lab/Co-op Harlow

    Welcomes the order, recognising benefits it will bring to pub and entertainment industry. Acknowledges potential impact on communities supporting these businesses.

  • Andrew Snowden Con Fylde

    Supports temporary licence changes, noting that hospitality sector has been impacted by increased national insurance and business property relief changes. He highlights importance of local pubs like the Coach & Horses in Freckleton for community spirit.

  • Ben Maguire LD North Cornwall

    Emphasises cultural shift brought about by women’s football teams, celebrating their achievements and encouraging grassroots participation. Advocates for better funding and resources for schools to ensure equal opportunities in physical education and sports.

Government Response

The Minister for Policing and Crime Prevention

Explains that the order is proposed under section 172 of Licensing Act 2003, recognising events of exceptional national significance. It follows a public consultation where 87% supported extending licensing hours for semi-finals and 84% for finals. The extension applies to sale of alcohol for consumption on premises until 1 am, reducing administrative burden.

Shadow Response

Mr Andrew Snowden

Supports the temporary licence changes for venues with licences until 11 pm if England or Wales reaches semi-finals or final. Acknowledges challenges faced by hospitality sector due to national insurance and business property relief changes, but sees benefits of extended licensing hours.

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