asked the Secretary of State for Employment whom he is consulting about the date of the New Year Bank Holiday in England, Wales and Northern Ireland; and why he has not yet been able to announce any decision on this matter.

The Govern-have approached the TUC, CBI, the British Bankers' Association, the Retail Consortium and the British Tourist Authority, and have received representations direct from a number of other organisations and individuals. The Government are considering the views received, and I hope to make a statement shortly.