Sunday Trading Debate

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Baroness Burt of Solihull

Main Page: Baroness Burt of Solihull (Liberal Democrat - Life peer)

Sunday Trading

Baroness Burt of Solihull Excerpts
Monday 14th December 2015

(8 years, 11 months ago)

Lords Chamber
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Baroness Neville-Rolfe Portrait Baroness Neville-Rolfe
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My Lords, we have made it clear in our consultation that shop workers who want to work on Sundays will have greater choice to work more hours, but that those who do not wish to work on Sundays will continue to be protected. This important point comes through from the consultation.

Baroness Burt of Solihull Portrait Baroness Burt of Solihull (LD)
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My Lords, the Liberal Democrats understand the Government’s considering allowing this decision to be made at a local level. However, we are concerned that this power, if given, could be seen as a boon to out-of-town traders. Will the Minister reassure us that any devolution will come with strict caveats on its use to ensure that local authorities focus on benefiting small independents and not out-of-town shopping malls?

Baroness Neville-Rolfe Portrait Baroness Neville-Rolfe
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My Lords, under our proposals, this would be a matter for local authorities. I know that they have different views on how to benefit their local economies and SMEs, but actually, this measure could be good for SMEs, particularly in areas with great tourism potential, where the footfall would help small companies—not only retail shops but restaurants and leisure outlets, for example.