Britain Seeks Changes in Pub Hours

"The House of Commons gave the go-ahead late Tuesday for the new alcohol licensing law, which ends the requirement that pubs shut by 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday and by 10:30 p.m. on Sundays.

"Supporters say the law, which goes into effect in early 2005, will reduce binge drinking in the last minutes before closing time."

Won't do me any good on this trip mind, but at least it's happening. And yes, I'll have another.

Maybe I should alter the itinerary to spend more time in Scotland, where authorities "often let pubs stay open as long as they choose."

Now that's civilized.