How do bank holidays affect the economy?

Millions are about to enjoy a four-day weekend thanks to the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Crowds on the beach
Crowds gather in Southend on a bank holiday Monday last year
(Image credit: John Keeble/Getty Images)

Economics lecturer Edward Thomas Jones looks at the benefits and costs of bank holidays

The Queen’s platinum jubilee will be celebrated across the UK with parades, picnics and street parties. But perhaps the most popular event planned to mark her 70 years on the throne will be an extra day off work.

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