Speak out

Here are some ways in which you can make your voice heard.

Write to your local MP

See whether your local MP has signed the Early Day Motion 1085 to reject any extension to Sunday trading. If he (or she) has, why not write and thank him for his support?

If not, you can write and ask whether he will be voting for or against any proposal to deregulate Sunday trading. Remind him of the statistics showing that most consumers and shopworkers don't want longer trading hours, and let him know what you think the cost to your community would be. Remember, 78% of MPs questioned were against deregulation, so it's likely that your MP is already on your side. Be polite and be calm in your letter, and encourage your MP to vote against any attempt at deregulation.

You can find out who your local MP is here.

Write to your local paper

Writing a letter to the editor of your local paper is a great way to raise awareness in your community. Most people think of Sunday trading only from the point of the consumer's right to shop, so why not remind people of the effect longer trading hours will have on shopworkers and their families, on the police, security, banking, distribution, transport, health and catering staff who also have to work when shops are open, and on the communities around large shopping stores which already suffer from congestion and noise six and a half days a week..

Write to the DTI

The DTI is currently running a cost-benefit analysis of the implications of extending Sunday trading. You can let them know what you think the cost would be to your family or community by emailing them at sundaytrading@dti.gov.uk or writing to:

Maria Bazell
Consumer and Competition Directorate
Department of Trade and Industry
Bay 418
1 Victoria Street
London
SW1H 0ET

The consultation will be open for contributions until 14 April.

Again, please remember at all times to be polite and courteous - angry letters and provocative tactics will always do more harm than good.