LONDON — Football-mad British workers were preparing to take time off on Wednesday to watch England's crucial World Cup Group C match against Slovenia, as pubs braced for a surge in trade for the afternoon kick-off.
The country's biggest labour union, the Trades Union Congress (TUC), called for bosses to be lenient on employees tuning in to the match -- which was also to be aired on a big screen for football fans at the Glastonbury festival.
"Not everyone has caught World Cup fever, but there are people all around the UK who would like to support their countries at home, in the pub, or on the radio or internet at work," said TUC boss Brendan Barber.
"To avoid any tensions bosses should discuss the issue with their staff. We would encourage them to let people watch the games if they like -- and then claim back their time afterwards. That way, everyone wins," he added.