As England faces Argentina in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday night, the prospect of a bank holiday if the team wins the final has been raised by outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. However, even if the government declares an extra public holiday, many workers may not automatically get the day off.
Starmer hinted at the possibility when asked by reporters, saying: “I don’t want to jinx it, but ask me again if we get to the final.” If England beats Spain in the final on Sunday, July 19, the bank holiday could fall on Friday, July 24, according to reports.
No Legal Entitlement to Bank Holidays Off
Despite the excitement, Citizens Advice clarifies that “it’s up to your employer to decide whether or not you have to work on bank holidays.” Under the Working Time Regulations 1998, employees are entitled to 5.6 weeks of paid annual leave per year (28 days for a full-time worker on a five-day week). There is no statutory right to extra days off beyond this, even if the Prime Minister declares a bank holiday.
Many employment contracts specify that bank holidays are included in the annual leave allowance, and some include a clause stating employees may be required to work on bank holidays if needed. With a last-minute decision expected, businesses may struggle to adjust, making it harder for employers to grant the day off.
Political Transition Adds Uncertainty
Starmer is set to step down as Prime Minister, with Andy Burnham expected to be formally declared Labour leader on Friday, July 17, and take over on Monday, July 20. When asked about the bank holiday, Burnham remained noncommittal, saying: “It would be a fantastic moment, wouldn’t it.”
Ultimately, while a World Cup victory could spark celebrations, workers should check their contracts and prepare for the possibility that they may still need to report to work.
