HC Deb 31 March 1938 vol 333 cc2156-7
16. Miss Ward

asked the Home Secretary whether, in view of the hardships imposed on the small shopkeepers by the operation of the Shops (Sunday Trading Restrictions) Act, he will make immediate investigations into the operation of the Act with a view to taking steps to remedy grievances?

Mr. Lloyd

My right hon. Friend sympathises with the position of the small traders, and he will, of course, always be ready to consider any representations which may be made on their behalf. At the same time, he feels bound to point out that it is difficult, in legislation of this character, to introduce any discrimination in favour of a particular type of shop, as against other shops selling the same commodities. He would point out also that, as my hon. Friend is no doubt aware, shops may be open on Sunday without restriction for the sale of a wide variety of articles, and that the local authorities have certain powers to make orders allowing the sale of some non-exempted commodities within certain limits.

Miss Ward

Am I to understand from that answer that my hon. Friend is aware of the grievance of the small shopkeeper? If I am not to have an answer to that question, may I ask whether it is the policy of a powerful Government to know that grievances exist and not take any steps to remedy them? May I have an answer to that question?

Mr. Lloyd

I must point out to the hon. Lady that the Home Office is receiving representations on both sides on the matter.

Miss Ward

If my hon. Friend is satisfied that there is a grievance, will steps be taken to remedy it?