Prime Minister David Cameron has announced that he has overruled the decision by the Home Office not to allow pubs across the country to remain open for England's World Cup matches.
The British Beer and Pub Association's application for a national extension of opening hours for two games during the tournament was turned down because it was not deemed an 'exceptional circumstance'.
Pubs were hoping to keep their doors open for the 11pm kickoff between England and Italy on Saturday, June 14, as well as the final weekend of the World Cup on July 11 and 12.
Despite the original decision, Cameron has announced that he has "ordered a rethink" on the opening times.
He wrote on Twitter: "I have ordered a rethink on pub opening times for England's World Cup games - will consult with pub trade, police and councils."
The original decision meant that pubs would have to apply individually for temporary licences.
