HC Deb 29 November 1977 vol 940 cc123-4W
Mr. Kilroy-Silk

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if, in the light of the fact that the practice of local authorities in implementing sections of the Shops Act relating to Sunday trading varies so considerably and causes unfair competition, he will issue a circular on the desirability of uniformity of practice.

Dr. Summerskill

The Shops Act 1950 provides local authorities with certain discretionary powers—in regard, for example, to the opening of shops on Sundays at holiday resorts—which need not be exercised uniformly. In August 1974 the Home Office sent a circular to district councils reminding them of their responsibility for enforcing the Act, and we see no need for a further circular at the present time.