Public holiday to mark King's coronation up for debate

Monday 09 January 2023

A one-off public holiday to mark the coronation of King Charles III in Jersey could take place this year - if States Members agree.

Chief Minister Kristina Moore has signed a Ministerial Decision asking for a law change to be drafted which, if approved, would provide for a public holiday on 8 May 2023.

It was due to be lodged today and is expected to be debated at a States sitting on 7 February.

A report explaining the Ministerial Decision states: "This decision follows the UK government's announcement for a bank holiday on Monday 8 May which will be observed in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Bailiwick of Guernsey and the Isle of Man have since announced plans to mirror that arrangement.

'The Chief Minister proposes that the Bailiwick of Jersey should similarly observe a public holiday on Monday 8 May, to ensure that the King's coronation is observed in the same manner across the British Isles."

In terms of resource implications, the Ministerial Decision said that the cost of paying staff in government and non-ministerial departments – who would otherwise be working – was estimated to be £1.38m per day.

"This is not an additional cost to the States," it added.