Braverman offers pubs boost for Coronation

By Connor Steel

HOME SECRETARY Suella Braverman has announced she will temporally extend pub licencing rules for the Coronation weekend of King Charles III in early May; offering a boost to English and Welsh hospitality over a designated Bank Holiday aimed at marking such “a momentous occasion deserving of a special celebration”.

The Fareham MP will exercise her powers under Section 172 of the Licensing Act 2003 and grant permission for pubs to stay trading until 1am between May 5 (Friday) and May 7 (Sunday) instead of a traditional closing time of 11pm. It follows a similar extension for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations seen in June 2022.

This step became public on Saturday evening (March 4) and was widely supported by 77% of the public who took part in a month long consultation; this announcement further being welcomed by a majority of MPs. The move is also set to be replicated in Scotland and Northern Ireland, where there is varying licencing guidance.

Braverman added her own reasoning to the move, saying: “His Majesty The King’s upcoming coronation will be a momentous occasion deserving of a special celebration. That is why I am extending the licensing hours over this historic coronation weekend. Up and down the country, people can enjoy an extra pint or two in the evening while families and friends can come together to wish His Majesty The King a long and happy reign.”

It was further welcomed by the CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association Emma McClarkin, who said in a short statement: “In the midst of an acutely challenging period, I am sure all of our pubs will look to mark this joyous occasion by hosting special events and parties as part of national celebrations. The announcement of extended opening hours will help us all to mark this important event (following last June’s Platinum Jubilee).”

The Government have furthermore encouraged residents to share their Coronation celebrations using a new digital site to be shared this month; allowing local communities to advertise their events across the three-day weekend, This could include lunches, street parties and volunteering from May 6; the date of the Coronation.

Not seen for almost seventy years the coronation will see His Majesty participate in a symbolic and religious ceremony that will formalise him as head of the Church of England, alongside a transfer of titles and powers. Camilla, the Queen’s Consort, will furthermore be crowned to her role during this huge ceremonial occasion.