UK Pubs to Stay Open Late to Toast Royal Wedding

NEW YORK (CBS/AP) Britain's government says the country's pubs will likely be allowed to stay open late to toast Prince William and Kate Middleton's royal wedding.

Home Office minister James Brokenshire said in a statement Wednesday that all licensed premises could be allowed to serve customers until 1 a.m.

PICTURES: Prince William and Kate Middleton
PICTURES: Kate Middleton
PICTURES: Britain's Royal Wedding

The government plans to consult with the entertainment industry on the plan. Brokenshire said the wedding was "an occasion for national celebration."

Currently, only bars and pubs with special licenses are allowed to stay open past the traditional final drinks call at 11 p.m.

Brokenshire said the relaxation will apply on April 29, the day of the couple's wedding at London's Westminster Abbey - which has already been made a public holiday, meaning Britons have the day off - and the following day.