Introduced on October 22 this bill grants territorial authorities power to allowing shop trading on Easter Sunday, and enable shop workers to refuse work on Easter Sunday. The  first reading on Nov 3 was decided on a conscience vote and by 75 to 45 the bill was sent to the Commerce Committee for consideration. National MPs voted under the whip on the issue in favour. Two Labour MPs supported, all NZ First MPs and ACT. All other MPs opposed. Report back deadline pushed back to May 17. Reported back and second reading debate held on June 28. A personal vote was held and the bill progressed by 62 to 59. Completed committee stage (Aug 17) and third reading (Aug 25) by the same margin with Labour MPs unhappy National voted as a bloc in support of the bill. Shop Trading Hours Amendment Bill