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King Charles Proclaims June 15 Scottish Bank Holiday for World Cup Return

The move follows First Minister John Swinney’s request, leaving employers and councils to decide whether staff get time off.

Overview

  • The royal proclamation, issued under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971, formally appoints Monday 15 June 2026 as a bank holiday in Scotland.
  • Scotland open against Haiti on Sunday 14 June with a 2am UK kick-off, prompting the decision to place the holiday on the following Monday.
  • Freedom of information emails show officials warned ministers that a holiday could draw business criticism and carry economic costs.
  • Business groups and opposition politicians questioned the planning and impact, and an industry survey found only 40% of licensed operators expect extended hours to benefit them.
  • Several councils, including Edinburgh, Fife, Scottish Borders and Falkirk, say they will not treat 15 June as a public holiday for staff, while others are still deciding and Glasgow indicates it is likely to observe it.