HC Deb 27 January 1966 vol 723 cc370-1
3. Mr. Patrick Jenkin

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what reply he has sent to the Consumer Council in response to the Council's representations that restrictions on shop opening hours during week days are no longer justified.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Home Department (Mr. George Thomas)

No final reply has yet been sent. The views of the Council will be considered with those of other bodies being consulted about proposed changes in the law on retail trading hours.

Mr. Jenkin

While thanking the hon. Gentleman for his reply, which is encouraging so far as it goes, does he recognise that the representations which have been made by the Consumer Council follow the opinions of a large number of people who are looking for a much greater relaxation of shopping hours than was outlined in the Government's announcement last year?

Mr. Thomas

There are conflicting views on this question and all the views will be considered.

Mr. Thorneycroft

Would the Home Secretary at least realise that the libertarian approach to home affairs might start with a little greater freedom for the shoppers?

Mr. Thomas

All of us in the Home Office want the right approach to this question, and I am quite sure the right hon. Gentleman will agree that it is proper to take all arguments into consideration.