Scotland - Scottish Executive trying to encourage an un official Bank Holiday for World Cup

It is reported that despite the Scottish Executive trying to encourage an un official Bank Holiday for the day after the first world cup match played by Scotland support is not forthcoming. This will be the first time Scotland has played in the World Cup for 30 years and kick off is in the middle of the night requiring people to forgo sleep if they wish to watch and then attend work.

The day after the match is not to be an official Bank Holiday for everyone but the Executive had put out a request for the local authorities and councils to class it as one and give their staff leave of absence – that is an extra days holiday.

The SBPA has commented on the decision not to adopt 15 June, as a bank holiday, saying that ‘we are deeply disappointed that several major Scottish councils — including Edinburgh, Fife, Scottish Borders and Falkirk — have now confirmed they will not recognise the World Cup bank holiday.

The SBPA added “These decisions collectively undermine what should be a unifying national moment and deny local pubs and hospitality venues the economic and community boost that this celebration would naturally bring...”

Ideally further clarity as to the position would be beneficial as the key dates approach.