Monday after Scotland's World Cup opener against Haiti to be bank holiday

First Minister John Swinney has proposed a national bank holiday the day after Scotland’s World Cup opener against Haiti.

The SNP leader says Monday, June 15, could be designated as a national bank holiday to mark Scotland’s participation in the tournament for the first time since 1998.

Steve Clarke’s men qualified last year for the major finals in North America, drawing in a group with Haiti, Morocco and Brazil.

The opener against the Haitians kicks off in the early hours of Sunday, June 14 with a kick-off time in the UK of around 2am.

The Tartan Army would be allowed the chance to celebrate into the wee hours with the following day as a bank holiday.

Swinney said: “Scotland qualifying for the men’s World Cup was a remarkable achievement and a landmark moment, and the reaction to the dramatic win against Denmark reminded us all what football means to the country.

“This year, we want to make the most of this huge opportunity for Scotland and ensure as many people as possible have the opportunity to celebrate the team’s success.

“Not only is this an historic sporting event, it’s also a chance for Scotland to be on the world stage, to attract business development, create tourism interest within the country and to make cultural and sporting connections.

“That is why I am taking steps to ensure the Monday after our opening game should be national bank holiday, so that – no matter the outcome of the match – we can all come together to share the occasion.”

A day can be appointed as a bank holiday in Scotland by royal proclamation.

The First Minister is able to advise the Privy Council, an advisory board to the monarch, on proclamations for Scotland, which are then formally signed off by the King.