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§ Mr. David Amess (Basildon)I beg leave of the House to present a petition on behalf of my hon. Friend the Member for York (Mr. Gregory) and the citizens of York in respect of maintaining Sunday as a day for family life away from six days of shopping.
On 19 December I presented a petition signed by 3,263 people. Tonight I present a petition signed by 2,037 people. I am assured by my hon. Friend that this demonstrates the overwhelming view of York electors who are concerned that seven days of trading will lead to a loss of employment, will not increase the totality of retail shopping and will break up family life, all against a background where there is no party manifesto mandate. The petition states:
Whilst acknowledging the need for the removal of the present anomalies in the Sunday trading laws, we urge that Sunday remain a day of worship, rest and relaxation for the benefit of family and community life.Wherefore your Petitioners pray that your honourable House reject the need for any other deregulation.And your Petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray.
§ To lie upon the Table.