The BBPA has welcomed the Licensing Hours Extensions Bill passing its Third Reading at the House of Lords today.

The BBPA has warmly welcomed the Licensing Hours Extensions Bill passing its Third Reading at the House of Lords today.

The bill, backed by the British Beer and Pub Association, had government and cross party support.

Licensing regulations currently have excessive restrictions which limit the Government's ability to quickly approve extending pubs’ opening hours during moments of national significance when Parliament is in recess - from qualifying sports matches to country-wide celebrations.

The bill was spearheaded through the Lords by Lord Thomas Watson of Wyre Forest. It had previously been led through the Commons by Andrew Ranger MP.

The BBPA said this change will unlock opportunities for the sector to drive economic growth at a time when pubs are struggling.

Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer Association said: “As we keenly await the details of the upcoming pub specific business rates package, we're delighted that Lord Watson, and the Government, have acted to boost growth and make it easier for pubs to do what they do best, right at the heart of moments of national significance in local communities.”