BBC: Parliament in France has begun debating a law that would allow more shops to open on Sundays.
Most retailers have been banned from trading on Sunday since 1906, when a law enshrined it as a day of rest.
But President Nicolas Sarkozy says the pace of modern life has overtaken tradition, and France has ended up behind the times.
Trade unions and many members of parliament across the political divide have criticised the planned law.
The bill would see the establishment of special tourist areas and commercial zones.
Employees would get double their normal pay for working on a Sunday.
Many big chain stores in France already ignore the current laws banning Sunday trading - and have to pay large fines for opening their doors.
Bakeries, butchers' shops and other small businesses are allowed to open - but only until noon. >>> | Tuesday, July 07, 2009
