From Rev Chris White,
Methodist Minister.
I AM sure there will be as many conversations about to take place in churches regarding Sunday trading as seem to have taken place among retailers. The issues in churches however are not purely economic but are likely to centre on family life, Sunday worship and the whole nature of a slower day.

Some retail owners may be disappointed that the new draft proposals may not go far enough but some retail workers could have a different point of view altogether. What is at stake is the quality of a very special day owned by everyone and not just those who attend church.

The 2008 Public Consultation Statistics reveal some interesting figures for reflection. While 57% of those who were asked favour Sunday opening, some 41% also favour some form of restriction. What does this tell us? I think it suggests that limited Sunday trading is favoured and people are nervous about a major change that might create seven hectic days in the week.

Proposed restrictions will offer shorter opening hours and indeed not all St Helier retailers will actually open on Sundays across the year. My reading of the draft is that this is not creating unlimited seven day shopping and that Parish Constables will continue to exercise some discretion in overseeing this.

What I value in the draft is that consultation has included churches and it is acknowledged there is no simplistic solution which will please everyone. I value also that this draft is a further attempt to give much-needed consistency across 12 parishes and will clarify what can and cannot be sold. If the present situation were to remain unchanged and muddled it would add to the frustration people already feel.

I would hope that after September we will be prepared to put ‘handle with care’ on the changes so that we can measure their success in both economic and social terms, finding a way forward for retailers and the community.

I would also hope that together we will continue to value and understand the religious communities which are part of Island life and the contribution they make. These communities are changing shape themselves, reaching a new generation, be they Christian, Jewish or Muslim.