Alan Whitehead MP

15-October-2004

Alan Whitehead MP Celebrates the Protection of Christmas Day

Alan Whitehead, Labour MP for Southampton Test is pleased to announce that the Christmas Day (Trading) Bill has passed its final stage in Parliament.

The Bill, backed by Usdaw, the shopworkers union, means that all large stores must close on Christmas Day and this would give most shopworkers at least one day off at Christmas.

Alan Whitehead MP said

"I have backed this Bill from the beginning and I am delighted that it has now become law. Staff in large retail stores work exceptionally long hours in the run-up to Christmas. This new law should provide them at least Christmas Day off, to spend time with their families. This is important for everyone, but especially for people with children. It also ensures that Christmas Day remains special for us all and doesn't become just another shopping day."

John Hannett, Usdaw's General Secretary, was quick to thank Alan for his support,

"We are very grateful to Alan Whitehead and to all of the MPs who helped us to make sure that Christmas Day is protected. I would like to thank them on behalf of Usdaw and the millions of shopworkers and their families who will benefit from this legislation."

Ends

Notes to Editors

1. Previous legislation did not prevent large stores from opening
on Christmas Day, unless it fell on a Sunday.

2. New legislation prevents all large stores of over 3,000 square
feet (the size of a tennis court) from opening on Christmas Day, whichever day of the week it falls on.

3. The Bill is sponsored by Kevan Jones MP (Labour, Durham North).

4. Further information on Usdaw's campaign to Protect Christmas Day can be found at www.usdaw.org.uk or by e-mailing christmasday@usdaw.org.uk or phoning Usdaw's Political Office on 0161 249 2452.

Contacts

Sam Goold in the constituency office on 023 8023 1942
Alan Whitehead’s London office on 020 7219 5079