Police chiefs in the UK criticise the timing of the government’s decision to allow pubs to stay open for an England football match. The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) says the announcement arrives too late for police forces to plan properly, which would mean redeploying officers from other operational duties to manage match-related issues. BBC News reports that the NPCC describes the government’s “late announcement” as forcing forces to divert staff from other work. Separately, the Evening Standard reports that the NPCC also urges England fans to act responsibly during the game. It asks supporters to be considerate to others and to drink “sensibly.” No additional details about the specific match, the exact timing of the announcement, or the duration of the extended opening are provided in the excerpts. Overall, the sources agree that police leadership objects to how late the decision is made and highlights the need for responsible behaviour by fans while pubs remain open.