The UK should show that it “”embraces”” the Hindu faiths by making Diwali public holiday, Conservative MP Bob Blackman has said.
Mr Blackman is championing an e-petition demanding the change in Parliament, after it was signed by more than 120,000 people.
Hindus should have “”the most important days in their faiths recognised in law””, the petition says.
The government has already rejected the e-petitioners’ request.
In its response to the petition, the government said: “”We are very aware of the importance of the festival which is widely celebrated in the UK.
“”Whilst we appreciate a new national holiday may benefit some community and sector, the cost to the economy remains considerable and any changes to the current arrangements would not take place without a full consultation.