Sunday Trading (London Olympic Games and Paralympic Games) Bill [Lords]

Ian Mearns Excerpts

Monday 30th April 2012 Commons Chamber

[Mr Umunna]

That is a very valid concern.

[Ian Mearns (Gateshead) (Lab)]

We in Tyneside have a long history of putting on large, huge participation sporting events, such as the great north run—and St James’s park is full most weekends. The great north run has taken place annually for the past 30 years or so, and there has been no great demand for the shops to be open on the Sunday while it takes place. Where is the demand for this change coming from? I cannot see it.

[Mr Umunna]

I agree. As I have said, no representations have been made to me arguing in favour of the measures in the Bill.

I was talking about those who may object to the Bill as a matter of conscience. For many, Sunday is a day of worship, but for many others, it is not. For everybody, however, Sunday is more than a day of rest. It provides us with something no amount of money can buy: quality time with friends, family and loved ones. Members may have an unhealthy fascination with Sunday political television programmes such as the Marr and Murnaghan shows, but we do not let that get in the way of a good slap-up Sunday roast with our nearest and dearest.