Licensed premises which do wish to open very early to sell alcohol during televised games can apply

Kim Howells DCMS

Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Minister Kim Howells said the pub industry had not asked for any change in the licensing law for the games.

But he told The Sun newspaper: "Licensed premises which do wish to open very early to sell alcohol during televised games can apply for special orders of exemption from the magistrates' courts - and in London, from the Commissioners of Police for the City and the Metropolis - in respect of this special occasion."

The decisions would then be in the hands of the magistrates, under the rules of the Licensing Act 1964, Dr Howells said.

Magistrates' encouragement

Licensing laws were extended during Euro 96 in UK cities hosting fixtures.

The Magistrates' Association told BBC News Online that it would be giving out guidance on licensing changes.

The association is already recommending magistrates grant 36 hour licences for pubs and clubs at New Year, in a repeat of last year's festivities, providing there are no objections from police or neighbours.

Kim Howells said pubs could apply for early licences

BBC and ITV have both won the rights to broadcast the games on terrestrial channels.

Dr Howells said that was likely to limit the public demand to watch the matches in pubs.

It is believed only a "very small number" will apply.

But football fans will be hoping that early-opening pubs will give them some of the atmosphere they will miss by not travelling to the Far East.

British Beer and Pub Association spokesman Mark Hastings told BBC News Online the opportunity to open early would definitely be taken up with pubs offering breakfast deals with beer optional.

Mr Hastings pointed to the England's recent victory over Germany which despite being televised on the BBC saw 30m pints of beer sold in the nation's pubs.

National celebration

"Most people want to watch their football in the pub and historically always have done.

"We have been arguing that this is a special occasion, a national celebration.

"We will be serving them their breakfast, coffee and teas."

He joked: "We will serve them their eggs and Beckham.

Days off

"It's a matter of personal choice whether you can face a pint of beer at six in the morning."

Tony Jerome, of the Campaign for Real Ale, applauded the move and said many fans would take the day off to enjoy the match in the pub.

"It is important people are responsible.

"A lot of people will take days off, enjoy the game and have a few drinks.

"I can't see people turning up drunk to work."