Usdaw claims victory for shopworkers in Sunday hours battle

Retail union Usdaw says shopworkers across the UK are delighted by the Government’s announcement that Sunday shopping hours for large stores will not be extended.

Thousands of Usdaw members have written to their MPs asking them to oppose any increase to the current six hour opening limit on Sundays for big stores.

Usdaw’s survey of 4,000 retail staff showed that 80% already had to work on Sundays and 95% opposed any extension to the six hour limit because shopworkers want to spend time with their families on that day.

The union believes that today’s announcement by Alistair Darling, Secretary of State at the Department of Trade and Industry, means the Government has listened to the genuine concerns of Usdaw members despite pressure form several major retailers.

“We’re delighted the Government has listened to the voice of millions of Britain’s retail staff,” said Usdaw General Secretary John Hannett. “Usdaw members have come out in their thousands to tell MPs how precious Sunday is to them and their families. We have run a highly effective, fact based campaign relying on our members’ evidence rather than emotion and today’s decision is a victory for common sense.

“Britain is the most deregulated retail environment in Europe with 150 hours shopping a week. All our members want is the right to a sensible proper work/life balance and thanks to this wise decision they will be able to enjoy quality time with their loved ones on Sundays.

“Usdaw members are grateful for the support of Britain’s shopping public who told us they were happy with the present six hour limit and to the 300 plus MPs who signed an Early Day Motion opposing longer hours and supported our campaign.

“That strong support plus the efforts of our members have played a significant role in making sure the Government made the right decision for shoppers, retailers and shopworkers.”

Notes to Editors:

• Contacts for newsdesks: Usdaw’s Media Officer, Paul Clarke, can be contacted on 0161 249 2469 or e-mail paul.clarke@usdaw.org.uk.
• Usdaw (the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is the UK’s fifth biggest trade union, with over 340,000 members. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemicals and other trades.
• More information and news releases are available at our online Newsroom.
• Journalists can subscribe to receive Usdaw news releases via our online e-news service.

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© 2003 (USDAW) Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers
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