James Duddridge, MP for Rochford and Southend East, is looking forward to celebrating St George’s Day on Wednesday – to such an extent that he has signed a motion in Parliament calling for the national day to be made into an annual public holiday.
James has signed a motion introduced by Romford MP Andrew Rosindell which is part of a campaign to establish 23rd April as a holiday so that the people of England can be united in celebrating the country’s great achievements and rich history.
The cross-party motion also requests that the Government mark the occasion by ensuring that the Cross of St George flag is flown from all public buildings on the day, and encourages local authorities, schools and businesses to fly the flag of England too.
This comes following local celebrations which took place on Sunday, where James joined the Mayor and other local dignitaries for a service at St John’s Church followed by a parade to the Naval and Military Club.
Speaking ahead of the national day, James said:
“It seems so obvious that our national day should be a public holiday. It should be a time for us to come together and celebrate our nation’s traditions and values, not go about our business as usual.”
“We are all proud of our country’s heritage, and the events that take place in Southend every year are clear signals that local people are keen to celebrate St George’s Day. If it were a national holiday we could mark it on 23rd April every year rather than having to move the service and parade to a weekend.”
22 April 2008