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Government to consult on a memorial bank holiday for employees who die at work

The Government is considering holding a bank holiday in remembrance of employees who died at work.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Yvette Cooper announced the Government would look into how best to commemorate those who had lost their lives at work.

She said: "It is a tragedy that some people go out to work and then never return home to their families. I want to look at what the UK can do to remember the thousands of workers who have lost their lives.


"I know there are many ideas for consideration, including a lasting memorial. Many countries already recognise Workers Memorial Day, to commemorate those who have been killed, seriously injured or made ill through work."

The Government has launched a consultation process to garner the views and opinions of bereaved families, trade unions and the public.

According to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), 180 people were killed and 400 seriously injured at work last year in the UK. And accidents and ill health are estimated to cost the economy £20 billion every year.