UK turns down petition for Diwali, Eid holidays

The UK government has rejected the idea of declaring Diwali and Eid as national holidays saying that adding more public holidays will affect the country's economy.

An online petition calling for a day off for these festivals celebrated by Britain's Hindu and Muslim communities attracted 121,843 signatures and was passed on to the House of Commons Backbench Business Committee responsible for scheduling debates on e-petitions that crossed 100,000.

The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills has now provided its decision on the issue, ruling out any further public or bank holidays, as they are known in the UK.

"Whilst we appreciate a new national holiday may benefit some communities and sectors, the cost to the economy remains considerable and any changes to the current arrangements would not take place without a full consultation,' the statement said.

"We are very aware of the importance of these festivals which are widely celebrated in the UK. The government is committed to bringing people together in strong, united communities. We encourage and support people to have shared aspirations, values and experiences,' the statement added.