EARLY CLOSING EXEMPTIONS

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 748, 22 August 1929, Page 8

EARLY CLOSING EXEMPTIONS

Sir,— It was very satisfactory to read a magistrate’s recent decision on early closing hours. These shops which are exempt do a considerable trade when similar shops are closed and add several lines to extend their business. It is very noticeable in Auckland at present among shopkeepers, and it is not a legitimate trade. If all small shops had to close their premises at the same hour business would be evenly distributed as the shops which have to close lose a considerable share of their trade and their returns are very much affected by these exemptions. There are small shops which remain open to a late hour and even on Sundays. They stock sundry goods and their owners consider themselves “within the law” when such goods are screened off with wire-netting. They then carry on as confectioners or dairy-keepers. We are patiently looking forward to an amendment of the law compelling all small shops to close at the one hour and also on the one half-day; especially in the cities. SHOPKEEPER.