Overview

This bill temporarily suspends restrictions on Sunday trading hours in England and Wales for the duration of the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games. It also addresses the employment rights of shop workers during this period, allowing them to opt out of Sunday work with a shorter notice period.

Description

The bill temporarily suspends the restrictions on Sunday trading hours for large shops, as defined by the Sunday Trading Act 1994, from Sunday 22nd July to Sunday 9th September 2012. However, restrictions on loading and unloading at large shops on Sunday mornings remain in effect. The bill also modifies the Employment Rights Act 1996, allowing shop workers to opt out of Sunday work during this period with a shorter notice period (two months or until Saturday 21st July 2012, whichever is later). If a worker opts out only for the Olympic period, they are automatically opted back in after the suspension period ends. These changes are temporary, reverting to the original regulations immediately after September 9th, 2012, with transitional provisions for notices given shortly before the end of the suspension period.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to significantly impact UK government spending as it primarily involves the temporary suspension of existing regulations and related adjustments to employment rights legislation. No specific figures are provided within the text.

Groups Affected

• Shop owners/businesses: Allowed to extend Sunday trading hours during the specified period, potentially leading to increased sales but also increased labour costs.
• Shop workers: Given the option of opting out of Sunday work with a shorter notice period. Those opting out solely for the Olympic period will automatically return to their previous Sunday working status.
• Customers: Will have greater access to shops on Sundays during the Olympic and Paralympic Games period.

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