Rugby World Cup: National to look at pubs bill

Photo / Jason Dorday

The Government says it will consider an urgent change to liquor laws after a proposal to allow pubs to open early for Rugby World Cup games was shot down in Parliament.

The Green Party blocked an attempt by Act Party leader David Seymour to table a bill that would have allowed all bars broadcasting the rugby to stay open after 4am during the tournament.

Most All Black games at the World Cup in Britain are outside the maximum default hours of 8am to 4am.

Mr Seymour called the Greens "mean-spirited" and "opposed to fun" after their objection yesterday.

However, the National-led Government indicated it would consider picking up the bill. Prime Minister John Key said a decision would be made soon.

"In the end, the really simple message is, of course all these bars could apply [for special licences], but it's quite expensive and it's bureaucratic for them."

National will consider narrowing the legislation's scope so the policy applies only to All Black games and knockout rounds.

Greens health spokesman Kevin Hague said Act's legislation was a "cheap publicity stunt".