Defence Minister Hopeful VJ Day Commemorations Will Take Place 'Properly'

A defence minister says he hopes lockdown measures will be lifted in time for Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) to be commemorated "properly" in August. 

It comes less than a week after the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) was marked with a number of revised plans in line with current coronavirus measures.

Speaking in the Commons, Armed Forces Minister James Heappey said: "Like everybody I’m hoping that the lockdown measures will have been lifted further to allow us to celebrate and commemorate VJ Day properly later in the summer.

"This is a day every bit as important as VE Day [Victory in Europe Day] and the Ministry of Defence want to make sure it is marked just as enthusiastically."

He added: "I’m sure the whole country was disappointed that the planned parades and commemorations could not take place but I felt that the activities we did manage were, I felt, still a very fitting tribute to the greatest generation."

VJ Day on 15 August 1945 marked the end of the Second World War after Japan surrendered to the Allies.

The announcement sparked celebrations across the UK, with the Government introducing two days of national holiday to mark the occasion after nearly six years of war.

But celebrations for its 75th anniversary are in doubt amid the continued coronavirus lockdown.

On Monday, the Government unveiled its plans for the lifting of lockdown measures in England.

The first of three phases is set to come into force on Wednesday.

Phase three, which includes the least restrictions and seeks to open more public spaces and facilities, is not expected to start earlier than 4 July.

Cover image: Armed Forces Minister James Heappey (Picture: PA).