Sir Keir Starmer has indicated that an extra day off could be declared if England claim victory at the World Cup.

The Prime Minister offered this observation as anticipation grows for England’s last-eight match against Norway.

The squad is scheduled to take to the pitch on Saturday 11 July, with Thomas Tuchel’s side requiring just three more victories to become world champions.

When questioned about a potential public holiday, Starmer responded that he would prefer not to tempt fate but would revisit the subject should England reach the championship match.

England must overcome the quarter-final stage, then the semi-final, and finally the final before any celebration of that magnitude could materialise.

The showpiece event is fixed for Sunday 19 July.

It is anticipated that Starmer will vacate Downing Street the following day, with Andy Burnham set to succeed him.

Should England progress to the title match, it appears probable that Starmer would attend the fixture, which could momentarily postpone the transfer of authority.

Sources suggest that any additional bank holiday would fall on the Friday after England’s potential triumph on 24 July.

The prospect of granting a day off should England secure the World Cup has generated discussion, though it remains a theoretical possibility.

Programmes including Good Morning Britain explored the notion on Thursday 9 July, with viewers expressing divided views.

In a poll posted on X seeking public opinion, several respondents opposed the suggestion.

One individual stated that ordinary workers, retail staff, healthcare employees, manufacturing staff, and hospitality workers would still be required to work, while only those in corporate positions would benefit.

Another wrote that this would amount to a meaningless bank holiday, noting that no such concession was granted when the Queen passed away, describing the situation as a joke.

A contrasting view came from someone who pointed out that Scotland received a Monday day off for a fixture against Haiti, which kicked off on the preceding Sunday, suggesting England deserved the same treatment.

In response, one person clarified that only certain local authorities in Scotland actually granted the day off, with the majority operating as usual.

Another commenter urged caution, suggesting the focus should remain on overcoming Erling Haaland and Norway in the quarter-final first, advising that England should approach one match at a time to avoid jinxing their chances.