ABSTRACT
This chapter considers the nature of the demand for leisure; more specifically, the demand for leisure time and the financial means to enjoy that leisure time. The demand for leisure is determined by a number of economic and social variables. Obviously, the demand for leisure does not depend solely upon purchasing power. It is also affected by the length of the working day and holiday entitlements, and the amount of time within that day which is set aside for leisure. Most of the economics’ literature dealing with the determination of leisure time has been concerned with the influence of the wage rate. The demand for leisure was not simply a sign of economic and social progress, it was in fact organized and articulated by the Labour Movement. Annual leisure time is increased by reducing weekly hours of work and taking more holidays.
