The Government had previously announced its intention to extend opening hours for licensed premises for VE Day in May and have consulted on an extension for VJ day in August. However, given the official advice to limit the spread of Covid-19, these plans will not  proceed.   The national commemoration events to mark VE Day 75 will be scaled back in order to protect the health and wellbeing of the Second World War generation and members of the public.

As this is a developing situation, if circumstances allow leading up to VJ day, premises may wish to apply for a Temporary Event Notice to extend their opening hours.

The UK Government and the Devolved Administrations are working on new plans to ensure the public can still thank the Second World War generation on VE Day in May and provide the fitting tribute they deserve.