Overview

This bill proposes to extend the existing restrictions on large shop opening hours on Christmas Day to also include Remembrance Sunday. The aim is to ensure that large shops remain closed on Remembrance Sunday, allowing employees and the public to observe the day of remembrance.

Description

Prohibition of Opening

The bill prohibits large shops (as defined in the Sunday Trading Act 1994) from opening on Remembrance Sunday for the purpose of serving retail customers. Exceptions are made for shops listed in Schedule 1 of the 1994 Act. Contravention of this leads to a fine not exceeding £50,000.

Loading and Unloading

The bill restricts loading and unloading of goods at large shops in loading control areas before 9 am on Remembrance Sunday. Exceptions are made for loading and unloading with the consent of the local authority and subject to any conditions they impose. Contravention results in a fine up to level 3 on the standard scale.

Enforcement

Local authorities are responsible for enforcing the provisions of the bill. They must appoint inspectors with powers of entry and investigation similar to those outlined in the 1994 Act.

Amendments to the Sunday Trading Act 1994

The bill makes consequential amendments to the Sunday Trading Act 1994 to explicitly include Remembrance Sunday in the regulations concerning shop opening and loading/unloading restrictions.

Government Spending

The bill states that any increase in government spending resulting from the Act will be met from money provided by Parliament. Specific figures are not provided.

Groups Affected

Large Shops: Will be prohibited from opening on Remembrance Sunday, potentially impacting their profits and requiring adjustments to their operational plans.
Shop Employees: Will likely have the day off, benefiting from additional time off and aligning with the spirit of Remembrance Sunday.
Local Authorities: Will be responsible for enforcing the law, incurring administrative costs related to the appointment of inspectors and enforcement actions.
Retail Customers: Will have less access to large shops on Remembrance Sunday.
Small Shops: Will generally not be affected by the regulations because they are excluded by the definition of “large shop”.

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