The state funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will take place on Monday 19th September 2022. It has been declared to be a national bank holiday which will mark the last day of the period of national mourning. It has also been said that this will allow individuals and organisations to pay their respects and to commemorate Her Majesty.
What does this mean for employees and businesses?
King Charles III has declared the state funeral a bank holiday and, as such, there is no legal requirement for an employer to allow employees the day off. There is no statutory entitlement to time off for a bank holiday, however, employers may include bank holidays as part of a worker’s leave entitlement. It will be helpful to review contracts of employment and what may have become custom and practice.
Is it likely that businesses will close?
It is anticipated that many businesses will automatically close which will also recognise that childcare issues could arise as schools will be closed. Where employees are compelled to work, perhaps because of the nature of their duties, discussions can take place in respect of additional pay or time off in lieu.
What will happen to employment tribunal hearings?
As a mark of respect, all court and tribunal hearing centres will be closed on 19th September 2022 other than urgent cases of a nature which are not heard by employment tribunals. Cases listed for a day or less will be postponed and relisted as soon as reasonably practicable. Hearings listed for two or more days on that day will commence on the following day, 20th September 2022. Where parties are unsure, they should make their own enquiries.
If you would like to discuss any of the issues in this blog, please contact us.
