Brighton Pavilion MP David Lepper has signed a Parliamentary motion to prevent shops opening for longer hours on Sundays.

Out-of-town shopping centres and large retailers are pressing the Government to allow for Sunday openings beyond the six hours currently permitted.

Mr Lepper said he was supporting shop staff, customers and religious groups who were against the move. He said: "Family time is precious.

"All the staff who work to keep large shops open deserve at least some time at weekends to spend with their children, family or friends.

"Shops can open for 150 hours a week and I believe that is enough for anyone to do their shopping.

"Sundays are special and most people want them to stay special."

John Hannett, from the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW), said he was delighted Mr Lepper was adding his name to the motion, which so far has been signed by 152 MPs.

The USDAW general secretary said: "Staff who work in retail tell us overwhelmingly that they want at least a few hours off work on a Sunday to spend time with their family, visit relatives or cook a Sunday dinner.

"A majority of the public oppose longer Sunday opening too.

Thursday, March 9, 2006