MEON Valley MP George Hollingbery has called for Sunday trading laws to be devolved to councils.

The Government is consulting on how it might allow local authorities to relax the rules, letting shops and larger businesses stay open longer.

Inviting residents to share their views, Mr Hollingbery said: “Of course, there will be many views but it seems to me that the time is now ripe to make a change and, more importantly, to ensure that local government has a powerful say in how opening hours operate.

“It's clear that high streets need to adapt in order to thrive in an internet age but local councils or mayors will be best placed to see when increased opening hours will be either good or not be good for communities.”

Retail has changed dramatically in the rural constituency since trading laws were last changed in 1994. Several village shops have shut in recent years as locals migrate online and to large superstores. Many other stores and high streets are facing pressure to survive.

The government consultation, issued last week, asks residents at what level they would like to see trading laws set.

Responses are due by September 16.

There will be no changes to regulations on Easter Sunday or Christmas, according to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.