Extra bank holiday will mark King’s coronation
BRITAIN will receive an extra bank holiday for King Charles III’s coronation after concerns about the effect on the economy were put aside.
Rishi Sunak has designated Monday May 8 as an official day of rest – two days after the coronation and just a week after the May Day bank holiday at the start of the month.
It is understood that the decision to hold a bank holiday was taken by Downing Street and sources in the palace declined to comment last night.
Mr Sunak said the day would be a “unique moment for our country” and encouraged the public to use the long weekend to celebrate.
“In recognition of this historic occasion, I am pleased to announce an additional bank holiday for the United Kingdom next year,” Mr Sunak said.
“I look forward to seeing people come together to celebrate and pay tribute to King Charles III by taking part in local and national events across the country.”
Preparations have begun for the coronation, which is set to be “glorious but not ostentatious” according to those close to discussions, and to reflect the “national mood” and economic turmoil. There will be a paredback
‘I look forward to seeing people come together to celebrate and pay tribute to King Charles III’
ceremony and guestlist for Westminster Abbey, while King Charles is “unlikely” to have as many outfit changes throughout the day as his predecessors.
Jacob Rees-Mogg, a Conservative MP, has previously said the event should not be slimmed-down and must be “sufficiently dignified for our sovereign”.
“The last one was for coronation for a reign of 70 years,” he said, adding: “This is not something that happens often, it needs to be done properly.”
Officials were said to be concerned about the effect that another day off would have on the economy, as ministers prioritise economic growth and the Bank of England warned of the longest recession in 100 years.
Sources close to Mr Sunak said the economic effects were “not a major problem” and that he “thinks it’s a really important occasion for the country to celebrate”.
Several government departments are involved in the planning, including the Ministry of Defence and Department of Culture, Media and Sport, with the Cabinet Office co-ordinating.
Oliver Dowden, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said the coronation “combines the sacred and the solemn but it is also celebratory”.
“This bank holiday will once again give people across the United Kingdom the opportunity to come together as families and communities to welcome His Majesty to the throne as we mark this important day in our nation’s long history,” he said.