Key facts
- Keir Starmer's office stated children should attend school on Monday morning, regardless of England's 1 am World Cup match.
- Head coach Thomas Tuchel encouraged parents to allow children to miss school to watch the game.
- Education minister Jacqui Smith highlighted the importance of learning for young people.
- There will be no immediate bank holiday for the match, though a win could prompt one.
Keir Starmer's office has indicated that children should attend school on Monday morning, irrespective of England's World Cup match against Mexico scheduled for 1 am UK time. This stance follows head coach Thomas Tuchel's suggestion that parents allow their children to miss school to watch the game, which could extend until 3 am.
Tuchel argued that the World Cup occurs only every four years and that children's support is crucial, encouraging parents to write excuses for school. However, Starmer's spokesperson maintained that while parents can make their own decisions, children are expected to be in school on Monday. The spokesperson referenced education minister Jacqui Smith's view that missing learning is a greater detriment than missing a match.
Smith herself stated that while she understands the desire to watch the game, important learning opportunities should not be missed. She humorously suggested taking a 'disco nap' before returning to work fresh. The babysitting app Bubble reported a 50% increase in Monday morning bookings, suggesting parents may be prioritizing the match.
Separately, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government confirmed that while the government backs the England team, the current schedule of bank and public holidays is established. There is a possibility of an extra bank holiday if England wins the World Cup, a prospect previously teased by Starmer for July 20.