Licensing Hours Extensions Bill: final stage in the House of Lords

The Licensing Hours Extensions Bill has reached its final stage in the House of Lords after completing committee stage without amendment. Peers agreed on 8 January 2026 that no changes were required, and the order of commitment was discharged. The bill is now scheduled for third reading on 23 January, which will be the last opportunity for further scrutiny, although significant changes at this point are unlikely.

The bill is a Private Member’s Bill introduced in the House of Commons during the 2024–26 session. It is designed to simplify the process for extending alcohol licensing hours for nationally significant events, such as major cultural or sporting occasions. Under the current system, each extension requires secondary legislation. The bill would allow ministers to authorise extensions more efficiently, reducing administrative burdens on Parliament and local authorities and offering greater predictability for the hospitality sector.

The bill’s smooth passage through the Lords so far suggests broad support for a more flexible and responsive licensing framework. If approved at third reading and returned to the Commons without amendment, it will move towards Royal Assent.