LOCAL people are being urged to support the 'Protect Christmas Day' campaign to stop large shops from opening for business on Christmas day.

The campaign is being led by the Union of Shop, Distribution and Allied Workers, who are also supporting the Christmas Day (Trading) Bill, which would prevent large stores opening for business on December 25 in the future.

Harlow MP Bill Rammell is fully backing the campaign.

He said: "Christmas is a very special day in the year and should be preserved for everyone. There is no need for large shops to open on this day and I hope they will recognise this during the holiday season.

"There have been occasions in previous years, when large stores have decided to open on Christmas day and their staff have been expected to work. This places a heavy burden on families because shop-floor workers are often mothers with young families.

"I hope local people will support shopworkers by getting behind this campaign and not shopping in any of the large stores if they decide to open on Christmas day this year."

December 21, 2001 11:51