Keir Starmer Dodges Bank Holiday Question for England World Cup Win
Starmer Avoids Bank Holiday Promise for England World Cup Win

Sir Keir Starmer refused to give a straight answer when asked about the possibility of a bank holiday being introduced if England go all the way and win the World Cup.

Prime Minister's Cautious Response

During an appearance on ITV's This Morning on Monday, the Prime Minister was asked by presenter Ben Shephard if he would consider giving the country a day off on Monday, 20 July, if the Three Lions are victorious on July 19.

Considering Thomas Tuchel's team haven't even played their first match of the tournament yet, the leader of the country can be forgiven for hesitating in his answer.

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The die-hard Arsenal fan responded conservatively by telling Shephard and co-host Cat Deeley: "We don't want to jinx the outcome."

Sir Keir added: "I shall be glued to it (the World Cup). I'm going to the G7 leaders meeting immediately after this, but we'll get back just in time for kick-off on Wednesday you'll be pleased to know."

England's World Cup Campaign

England play their opening game against Croatia at the Dallas Stadium in Texas on Wednesday. The game kicks off at 9pm (UK time) and will be available to watch on both ITV1 and BBC One.

The Three Lions will be hoping to get some points on the board before they meet Ghana in Boston on June 23 and Panama in New Jersey on June 27. If Tuchel's men can get out of their group, they then face four potential knockout matches before the final at the MetLife Stadium on Sunday, July 19.

Historical Precedent

When England won their one and only World Cup in 1966, there was no extra bank holiday. The nation returned to work as usual the following Monday after the Labour Party in government - led by Prime Minister Harold Wilson - decided against granting an extra day off to celebrate the historic 4-2 victory against West Germany.

Other Topics Discussed

The Prime Minister, who appeared on This Morning today to discuss the introduction of a social media ban for children under the age of 16, also commented on his US counterpart's 80th birthday celebrations.

President Donald Trump celebrated the milestone by hosting a UFC event on the front lawn of the White House over the weekend. When asked by Shephard whether he sent a present to Mr Trump, Starmer replied: "I can't disclose what I gave him until he actually receives it. So we'll all have to wait."

He added: "I spoke to him on Saturday afternoon. It was mainly about the Iran deal, but it was also an opportunity to say happy birthday."

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