The British government conceded defeat concerning its plans to relax Sunday trading laws. The government attempted to let larger shops trade for longer than six hours each Sunday, but was thwarted by 31 votes, including from members of Prime Minister David Cameron’s own party. MPs argued that it was necessary to “keep Sunday special” and protect family time for shop workers. Scotland already has relaxed trading laws.
The plan would have allowed local councils to decide whether to let larger stores stay open longer on Sundays to benefit the economy.
MP David Burrowes, who led opposition to the government’s legislation said, “If we listen to our constituents… I have many shopworkers, many faith groups and many others saying: why are we doing this? Why are we trying to unpick something that’s fairly settled?”
Angela Eagle, the shadow business secretary, said, “We support the current arrangements, which work well and mean retailers can trade, customers can shop, and shopworkers can spend time with their families.”
The government has tried before. This is the third attempt to liberalize Sunday trading and it is the third time they have been unsuccessful.
Sunday specialness is very entrenched in British society. Keeping shopping limited plays into the hands of the papal intention to eventually establish Sunday as a rest and worship day.
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