HC Deb 24 April 1986 vol 96 c213W
Mr. McQuarrie

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland why, pursuant to the answer of 17 April, Official Report, columns 458–9, he is not prepared to examine Scottish legislation concerning shops opening in the context of the preservation of the traditional Scottish Sabbath; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. John MacKay

In Scotland the provisions in the Shops Act 1950 which restrict Sunday trading apply only to hairdressers and barbers. Accordingly, the law as it stands in Scotland accords generally with the view of the Government that legal sanctions should not be introduced to regulate activities which are more appropriately influenced by tradition, example and persuasion.