UK politics: Downing Street defends decision to let pubs stay open until 5am for England match – as it happened

Downing Street has defended its decision to allow pubs to stay open at 5am on Monday for the England World Cup match against Mexico, after police criticised the government over the “late announcement”. A Downing Street spokesperson said: “Obviously England’s progression in the tournament was confirmed on Wednesday evening and we announced plans as quickly as possible following this. The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has criticised the timing of the government’s decision to let pubs stay open until 5am for England’s World Cup match against Mexico. Keir Starmer announced yesterday that pubs across England and Wales will be able to stay open late for the match, which kicks off at 1am on Monday. Andy Burnham, the lead contender to succeed prime minister Keir Starmer, has hinted at some of his tax proposals as he draws up plans to revitalise Britain’s high streets. In his first interview since being elected MP for Makerfield, Burnham told LBC there is “some room” in the Labour mani