Will there be a bank holiday if England win the World Cup? Likely date put forward

Ministers are considering introducing an extra bank holiday if England win the FIFA World Cup this month.

The most likely date for the national day off is understood to be Friday, July 24, five days after the World Cup final, should the Three Lions lift the trophy.

England face Argentina in Wednesday's semi-final after their dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Norway. If Thomas Tuchel's side progress, they will meet either Spain or tournament favourites France in Sunday's final.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has suggested a celebratory bank holiday could be on the table if England are crowned world champions.

Speaking at the Nato summit last week, he said: "I don't want to jinx it, but ask me again if we get to the final."

Andy Burnham, who is expected to succeed Sir Keir as Prime Minister on Monday, July 20, was more cautious when asked about the prospect earlier this month.

Speaking to LBC, he said: "I'm an Evertonian, I do not ever back anything when it comes to football, I don't do it with England either. I think they've got a bit of improvement to do before we can start seriously dreaming of it coming home."

It remains unclear whether any additional bank holiday would apply only in England or across the UK, as the four nations have separate arrangements for public holidays.

Scotland has already enjoyed a national day off after qualifying for its first World Cup since 1998.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has indicated she would be unlikely to support an extra bank holiday, arguing that "the private sector would still be working and the public sector would take the day off".

Friday, July 24 is understood to have been earmarked for a potential celebration should England secure their first World Cup title in 60 years.