Retail union Usdaw hailed Friday 15 October as a “historic milestone”, after the Christmas Day (Trading) Bill passed its final Commons stage.
Under the new ruling, sponsored by Labour MP Kevan Jones, all shops of more than 280 square metres will not be allowed to open on Christmas Day.
Usdaw general secretary John Hannett said: “This new legislation will be greeted with a huge sigh of relief by millions of retail staff, who in the recent past were worried some retailers were looking to open on 25 December.
“Our members can now rest assured they will be able to enjoy Christmas Day with their families and friends and take a well-earned rest after the hectic pre-Christmas rush,” he said.
