The UK government has announced that there will be no additional bank holidays next year to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Despite reports suggesting that ministers were considering extra days off to commemorate VE Day (Victory in Europe, 8 May) and VJ Day (Victory over Japan, 15 August), Downing Street confirmed that these plans will not move forward.
Instead, the government intends to use the existing early May bank holiday, scheduled for 5 May, for commemorative events related to both VE and VJ Day. In addition, £10 million in funding has been allocated to support various events marking these significant milestones in history.
The 80th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day next year is expected to be a poignant moment, particularly for the remaining World War II veterans, as it could be their last opportunity to participate in such events. In the past, there have been adjustments to bank holidays for similar occasions. For example, in 2020, the early May bank holiday was moved to 8 May to coincide with the 75th anniversary of VE Day, and in 1995, it was also shifted to mark the 50th anniversary of the war’s end in Europe.
Although there were suggestions to add extra bank holidays in May or August for celebrations, the government emphasized the importance of balancing such decisions with their potential impact on businesses and the economy. While the public will not receive additional days off, the government has made clear its commitment to appropriately commemorating these historical events.
