Guernsey Sunday trading permit applications encouraged

Guernsey's Trading Standards Service has urged retailers to apply for Sunday trading licences, despite an ongoing political debate.

Bryan Guilbert, chief Trading Standards officer, said he was worried some businesses might put off applying until the matter was settled by the States.

He said if Sunday trading laws were suspended, the £25 application fee paid by retailers would be refunded.

Guernsey politicians will debate the issue in October.

Deputy Mike Hadley, a member of the Commerce and Employment Department, is due to ask members to suspend the laws for a trial period of a year.

Currently grocery stores with floor spaces larger than 400sq-m (4,300sq-ft) can not open on Sundays.