Easington MP Grahame Morris is spearheading a parliamentary campaign urging the government to establish a new bank holiday dedicated to honouring veterans.

In his recently submitted Early Day Motion, Mr. Morris appeals to the government to develop proposals for a bank holiday on the Monday following Remembrance Sunday, dedicated to the Forces Community. Emphasising the lack of public holidays in the UK compared to international standards, the motion underscores the necessity for additional holidays in the latter part of the year, as the majority of current bank holidays fall within the spring and summer months.

Speaking in response to the motion’s release, Grahame Morris MP expressed:

“I have consistently championed the idea of extra bank holidays, and I believe a day dedicated to veterans following Remembrance Sunday would garner widespread public and cross-party support.

I am well aware of the tremendous efforts’ veterans invest in organising events, meetings, and fundraisers for the poppy appeal in the lead-up to Remembrance Sunday, particularly in East Durham. Notable events such as the Stag On Vigil, Pebble Poppy, and the recent unveiling of the Ray Lonsdale Sculpture in Murton, alongside various activities by schools, cadets, and community groups, underscore the importance of commemorating those who served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice.

A bank holiday on the Monday following Remembrance Sunday would afford everyone the opportunity to actively engage in our acts of remembrance.”

End.

EDM 51: Veterans Day bank holiday 

That this House wishes to honour the service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces with a new bank holiday on the day after Remembrance Sunday; notes that many countries have a dedicated Veterans Day public holiday; recognises that, by international standards, the UK is amongst the countries with the fewest public holidays; highlights the need for more bank holidays in the second half of the year because the majority of the current statutory bank holidays are during the spring and summer months; and believes that any such proposal from the Government would command significant cross-party support.