The British government is giving pub patrons in England and Wales a party favor during this weekend’s national celebration of Queen Elizabeth’s 90th birthday: two extra hours to throw down a pint at the local pub.
Licensed pubs in England and Wales will be allowed to stay open until 1 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, up from the usual 11 a.m. closing time, The Independent newspaper reported Thursday.
The move was announced in March by Prime Minister David Cameron.
“I’m sure that will be welcomed right across the House,” he said at the time, the Independent reported.
Mr. Cameron’s office said in March said the government has extended licensing hours for past national celebrations including the royal wedding in 2011, Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012 and the 2014 World Cup.
Queen Elizabeth’s birthday is April 21, but the British government designates a weekend in June for the country’s official celebrations. The monarch’s consort, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, turned 95 Friday.
• Ken Shepherd can be reached at kshepherd@washingtontimes.com.
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