Thursday 23rd March 2006
The attempt by supermarkets and other big stores to bring about an extension in Sunday trading hours has galvanised the Keep Sunday Special Campaign into renewed action aimed at persuading the Government not to make changes in the law at this point.
Our concern, as I am sure is yours also, is that further intrusion into Sunday even by a few hours will completely destroy a day of rest for many more thousands of people.
Our huge concern is that the Government appears to have gone ahead with 'an economic benefit assessment' without paying due regard to the social and family issues. We believe that further incursions in the weekend will add to the damage already done to family life by the diminishing number of hours parents spend with their children.
We have recently received information that the DTI are asking their consultants to include the possibility of easing trading restrictions on Easter Sunday. An Easter Day free of trading by large stores was our one victory in 1994. To 'sneak' this in at the last moment is, in our view, quite deplorable.
I am writing with the aim of re-activating churches in the diocese. To obtain a copy of the leaflet for churches or a simple-to-read brochure to promote concern more widely, go to www.keepsundayspecial.org.uk or phone 01223 566319.
John Alexander
Campaign Manager,
Keep Sunday Special