Tony Colman MP Celebrates the Protection of Christmas Day

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15th October 2004

Tony Colman, MP for Putney is pleased to announce that the Christmas Day (Trading) Bill has passed its final stage in Parliament.

The Bill, backed by Usdaw, the shopworkers union, means that all large stores must close on Christmas Day and this would give most shopworkers at least one day off at Christmas.

Tony Colman said "I have backed this Bill from the beginning and I am delighted that it has now become law.

"Even Scrooge gave his staff Christmas Day off. Staff in large retail stores work exceptionally long hours in the run-up to Christmas. This new law should provide them at least Christmas Day off, to spend time with their families. This is important for everyone, but especially for people with children.

"It also ensures that Christmas Day remains special for us all and doesn't become just another shopping day."

John Hannett, Usdaw's General Secretary, was quick to thank Tony Colman for his support:

"We are very grateful to Tony Colman and to all of the MPs who helped us to make sure that Christmas Day is protected. I would like to thank them on behalf of Usdaw and the millions of shopworkers and their families who will benefit from this legislation."