Supermarkets may soon be able to open for longer hours under government plans to help boost the post-lockdown economy.
Under current rules, supermarkets in England and Wales are only permitted to trade for six consecutive hours between 10am and 6pm.
However, new legislation is being drafted which would suspend the current Sunday Trading laws for a year, allowing bigger supermarkets to open for more than six hours on Sundays.
In addition, cafes and pubs could be also given fast-tracked approval to serve food and drinks outside, removing the need for a 28-day minimum statutory consultation period.
The measures are intended to help restimulate the economy, secure jobs and boost financial recovery following the pandemic crisis.
Local councils could also be encouraged to pedestrianise more streets to allow for outdoor markets that would allow businesses to adhere and adapt to social distancing measures.
David Cameron had previously attempted to abolish Sunday trading laws in 2016, but was unsuccessful after 27 Tory MPs rebelled.
A cross-party group of 40 MPs is leading this latest proposal and pushing for Government to make the changes.
If agreed, the new rules could come into effect as soon as restrictions end.
Author
Gill Laing is a qualified Legal Researcher & Analyst with niche specialisms in Law, Tax, Human Resources, Immigration & Employment Law.
Gill is a Multiple Business Owner and the Managing Director of Prof Services - a Marketing Agency for the Professional Services Sector.
