Schools are likely to be open as usual on Monday morning, despite England's 1am World Cup match against Mexico. The team secured their place in the next round after defeating the Democratic Republic of the Congo and now face a highly anticipated showdown at the Azteca stadium.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has rejected calls for children to be given the day off school, following an appeal from England head coach Thomas Tuchel. In a statement, a spokesperson for Starmer said: "It is up to parents to make their own decisions. We want everyone to enjoy the game but children should be at school on Monday."
Education Minister Jacqui Smith has also weighed in on the debate, suggesting families take a 'disco nap' on Sunday evening to ensure they are fresh for work on Monday. When asked about her plans, Ms Smith stated: "I don’t want to be a killjoy, but I’ll tell you what the biggest killjoy is – young people who don’t have the learning to be able to go on and do what they need to do in life."
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government indicated that while the government supports the England team, there are no plans to declare an emergency bank holiday on Monday. The current pattern of bank and public holidays is "well established," according to a ministry representative.
Speculation about a potential bank holiday if England wins the World Cup has been ongoing, with some fans campaigning for it. However, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer previously hinted at such an event, but refused to make firm commitments to avoid 'jinxing' the tournament.