§ Mr. MansTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what arrangements are being made to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II in 1995.
916W
§ Mr. RifkindI am pleased to be able to announce that the Government intend to commemorate the events associated with the ending of the second world war; to recognise the sacrifices of so many who were involved; to give thanks for the beginning of peace; and to take forward the spirit of reconciliation. There will be two church services in London. One will be in St. Paul's cathedral; the venue for the other has yet to be decided. One will be on Sunday 7 May, the other in mid-August. Each will be followed by a parade. The Government also envisage that commemorations in London will be reflected in events around the nation and intend to consult widely, especially with veterans' associations and voluntary organisations, on the detailed planning.
In addition, as my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Employment announced today, for 1995 only and in association with these commemorative events, the early May bank holiday will be on Monday 8 May, which in Scotland will be an additional day's bank holiday.