Olympic shopping hours

The continuing campaign by the retail union Usdaw against extended Sunday shopping during the Olympics and Paralympics, has gained the support of the GMB general union.

The GMB warns that the one million plus shop and distribution workers could be facing unreasonable pressure to carry out additional work for the Olympics. The GMB cites evidence that some employers, anticipating higher demand during the Olympics, are scrambling to keep shops open later and on additional days.

Ironically, this is despite data showing that the number of visitors to the host country actually drops during the Olympics. It is believed that tourists are put off by the anticipated large crowds and rip-off prices.

If employers do nevertheless wish to extend the availability of their services, this should be with the participation and consent of their staff. The GMB points out that staff must be given the option to decline additional shifts and those that do wish extra hours, must be paid an Olympic premium.

The Bill allowing the changes on Sunday trading between 22 July and 9 September in England and Wales became law on the 1 May.