 |
Arena Magazine 2004 Issue 1 |
 |
Christmas campaigns storm ahead
The threat of supermarkets opening on Christmas Day will soon be consigned to history after the Government announced it will introduce legislation to protect shopworkers before the end of the year.
Signalling the Government's intentions, department of trade and industry minister Patricia Hewitt said: "We live in a multi-cultural, multi-faith society, but Christmas Day remains a special day for most UK citizens, either for religious or family reasons.
"We want to preserve the special nature of this day and stop it becoming the first day of the sales. Shopworkers deserve a day with their families at Christmas."
The announcement came only days after General Secretary Sir Bill Connor, President Marge Carey and MP Kevan Jones presented a 250,000 signature petition to 10 Downing Street calling for legislation to ban large stores from opening on Christmas Day. "There is overwhelming public and political support for new legislation," said Sir Bill. "Shopworkers must be allowed to spend December 25 at home with their families."
Labour MP for Durham North Kevan Jones is spearheading the union's parliamentary campaign. His Private Member's Bill had its first reading on January 7. Once it completes its parliamentary journey, it will ban retailers from opening larger stores on Christmas Day in England and Wales.
Meanwhile Karen Whitefield, Labour MSP, has a Private Member's Bill before the Scottish Parliament which seeks to ban larger stores from opening on Christmas Day and New Year's Day in Scotland.
The Labour MSP for Airdrie and Shotts said: "Christmas Day and New Year's Day are very special to Scottish families. I believe that these days will not remain special if shops are allowed to open. My Bill will help ensure that these two collective days will remain days of rest for all Scottish people."
Scotmid, one of Scotland's biggest employers with more than 3,300 staff and 160 outlets, fully supports the planned measures.
 Printer Friendly Page  Email to a Friend
|
