England are one win away from the World Cup final, but if they go on to lift the trophy, would people in Wales and Scotland also get an extra bank holiday? It's a question many outside England are asking ahead of tonight's World Cup semi-final against Argentina, with reports suggesting the UK Government is preparing plans for an extra day off if the Three Lions become world champions.
Would Wales get the bank holiday?
Almost certainly, yes. Bank holidays are a reserved matter, meaning they are decided by Westminster for England and Wales together. While no official announcement has been made, it would be highly unusual for England to receive a bank holiday without Wales also being included. In fact, Wales has no powers to create its own bank holidays, making it the only UK nation unable to do so.
What about Scotland?
Scotland is different. The Scottish Government has powers over public holidays, meaning ministers in Edinburgh would decide whether to follow suit, but it's highly unlikely. Scotland already has nine bank holidays compared with eight in England and Wales. Last month, Scotland announced a separate national holiday to mark the country's first appearance at a men's World Cup finals since 1998.
And Northern Ireland?
Northern Ireland also has devolved powers over public holidays and currently enjoys 10 bank holidays each year. Any decision there would rest with the Executive rather than Westminster.
Why has this become a talking point?
Many in Wales have long campaigned for St David's Day to become a national bank holiday. Successive UK governments have rejected those calls, arguing an additional permanent holiday would have a significant economic impact. If Wales were to receive a day off because England won the World Cup, some critics argue it would reignite debate about why Wales still cannot decide its own national holidays.
What has Keir Starmer said?
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has not confirmed a bank holiday but has strongly hinted one remains possible. Speaking earlier this month, he said: "On the question of a bank holiday, I don't want to jinx it, but ask me again if we get to the final." Reports suggest the Government could announce plans as early as Thursday if England beat Argentina, with Friday, July 24 earmarked as the most likely date should England go on to beat Spain in Sunday's World Cup final.
