Police criticise timing of decision on pubs staying open for England match

Police have criticised the timing of the government's decision to let pubs stay open until 05:00 BST on Monday for England's World Cup match against Mexico.

The National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) said the "late announcement" on Thursday meant forces would have to take officers away from other duties and work extended shifts.

It noted the government's decision was announced on Thursday even though the football team's likely route through the tournament "has been known for a considerable time".

Police are asking fans to be "considerate" and "drink within sensible limits" while watching the game – a crucial last-16 fixture that will see the losing team eliminated.

"We also know from previous tournaments the knock-out games sadly see an increase in violent incidents, particularly in the night-time economy, and an increase in domestic abuse," the NPCC's football and alcohol policing leads said in a joint statement.

"We will continue to work with partners and venues to support a safe and enjoyable evening for everyone."

Licensing hours had already been extended for the tournament and the government had initially said it would not relax the laws further.

But late on Thursday, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said pubs could remain open until the end of the game, which does not kick off until 01:00.

The match is not expected to end until at least 03:00 and could finish even later if it goes to penalties.

Pub chain Greene King has said more than 600 pubs across England will be staying open late to show the match, while Marston's has said more than 400 of its pubs will also be open.

General Secretary Paul Nowak said the TUC was asking employers to "show some common sense and understanding" by allowing staff to work from home or come in later where possible.

England coach Thomas Tuchel has said parents should let their children stay up late for the match.

"There's so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch," he said after England's victory over DR Congo in the round of 32 on Wednesday.

The head of the National Education Union (NEU), Daniel Kebede, told BBC Breakfast he would also like to see "a bit of a flexible start" for schools on Monday morning.

Education Secretary Bridget Philipson earlier told the BBC that she would not tell parents when they should send their children to bed, but asked them to make sure they were in for school on Monday.

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