Bank Holidays (Wales) Bill [HL]

A Bill to amend the Government of Wales Act 2006 and to devolve powers to set bank holidays.

Originating House

House of Lords

Last Updated

31 October 2023

In Plain English

AI-generated

This bill would give Wales the power to set bank holidays by amending the Government of Wales Act 2006. In effect, the Welsh Government would decide public holiday dates for Wales rather than the UK government. The bill is currently at its first reading in the House of Lords as it begins its passage through Parliament.

Key Points

Amends the Government of Wales Act 2006 to devolve the power to set bank holidays to Wales.
Transfers decision-making on Welsh bank holiday dates from the UK government to the Welsh Government.
Allows Wales to designate specific dates for public holidays affecting work, schools and public services in Wales.
Introduced in the House of Lords and currently at the first-reading stage, starting its legislative journey.
If enacted, could impact employers, schools, public services and residents across Wales.

Progress

The bill is at the very start of its journey in Parliament, currently at the first reading in the House of Lords with no debates yet.

Who is affected?

Residents of WalesWelsh Government and Welsh public sector bodiesEmployers and employees in WalesPrivate sector businesses and organisations operating in WalesSchools and educational institutions in Wales

Generated 21 February 2026

Updates & Documents

News (1)

Bank Holidays (Wales) Bill - news

26 Oct 2023

The 2022-2023 session of Parliament has prorogued and this bill will make no further progress.

Documents (1)

HL Bill 73 (as introduced)

BillLords

30 Nov 2022

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.