UKH 'fully behind' coronation plans
The trade body stated it was “fully behind” the Government consultation, launched in December, proposing pubs and bars could be permitted to stay open until 1am across the bank holiday weekend from Friday 5 to Sunday 7 May.
UKH chief executive Kate Nicholls said: “The King’s coronation will be a spectacle celebrated by millions and hospitality will no doubt be at the centre of a historic moment for the country.
Much-needed boost
“I’m pleased the Government is proposing to extend licensing hours and UKHospitality is fully behind the plans.”
Nicholls added the extension to licensing hours would not only benefit customers, but would also allow businesses to trade for longer, increasing footfall and generating additional sales.
She continued: “At a time when the sector has been ravaged by the cost of doing business crisis, as well as recruitment challenges and strike disruption, this extension would provide a much-needed boost and aid hospitality’s recovery.”
King Charles III is set to be crowned in a ceremony at Westminster Abbey, London, on Saturday 6 May.
Joyous occasion
Additionally, licensing firm Poppleston Allen said the coronation was exactly the sort of national celebration the legislation allowing extensions of hours in the Licensing Act 2003 was designed for.
Poppleston Allen partner James Anderson said: "There have been previous extensions, most recently for three days in May for the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee; the Home Secretary’s introduction recognises the challenges the hospitality industry has faced and so there seems little doubt that this will be approved."
This comes as British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) chief executive Emma McClarkin last month shared her support for the consultation.
She said: “The opportunity to extend opening hours would allow pubs to make the absolute most of this joyous occasion and be at the centre of parties up and down the country, with people given even more chances to raise a toast to his Majesty across the three days.”
