The
Government has hinted it is to introduce legislation that will prevent
employers forcing staff to work on Christmas Day.
Employment
relations minister Alan Johnson announced in the House of Commons that the
Government was "minded to introduce legislation" unless there is a
sensible alternative.
"My
view is that there is not an alternative at the moment and it will be
beneficial regulation," he said.
Shopworkers’
union Usdaw, welcomed the minister’s comments.
"This
is great news for our members. We’re hopeful that the law could be in place
before Christmas 2003," said Usdaw general secretary Bill Connor.