SHOULD larger shops on the Island be able to stay open for longer during this summer’s London Olympics?
That’s the question posed by Island MP Andrew Turner after the government announced plans to allow all shops to open longer on Sundays, throughout the games. The chancellor, George Osborne, proposed the measure during last month’s Budget.
The proposal, which would mean shops open for six more hours, would mean Sunday trading laws being suspended for eight weeks, beginning on July 22. The government says it is pushing for the move to boost sales during the Olympics.
Mr Turner said: "My view is large shops across the country should not be allowed to stay open longer on Sundays, although I accept there is a case for it in and around the Olympic Park.
"The games will attract large numbers of tourists and some will undoubtedly visit other places while they are in the UK — indeed I hope many will come to the Island.
"I think this should be seen as an opportunity for smaller shops and businesses to benefit. They are already allowed to stay open for longer on Sundays.
"I hope Islanders will let me know their views."
Reporter: jamiew@iwcpmail.co.uk