Sir Keir Starmer has hinted that an extra bank holiday could be declared if England win the World Cup, though he stopped short of making a firm commitment. Speaking ahead of the quarter-final against Norway on Saturday, the Prime Minister praised England's recent performance against Mexico as "one of the best England performances I’ve ever seen" and said victory against Norway would bring the team closer to a first World Cup win in 60 years.
Bank holiday plans under consideration
When asked directly whether he would support a bank holiday if England win the tournament, Sir Keir told reporters at Wednesday's Nato conference in Ankara: "I don’t want to jinx it, but ask me again if we get to the final." The final is scheduled for Sunday, July 19, and it is understood that Friday, July 24, has been earmarked as the most likely date for a celebratory bank holiday.
Starmer and Norwegian PM share light-hearted moment
During the Nato summit, Sir Keir exchanged banter with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store. He said: "I’m a good friend of his. The Norway-UK relationship is as strong as it’s ever been and he’s a key individual in the coalitions that we’ve been building. But for 90 minutes on Saturday evening, we’ll have to go our different ways as we go into that match."
Match details and viewing information
The England squad face Norway on Saturday live from the Miami Stadium. The match kicks off at 10pm UK time and is available to watch on TV for fans at home.
