The Government faces pressure to water down its plans over Sunday trading laws as its own MPs are threatening a rebellion.
Parliament is due to vote on the Sunday trading plans on Wednesday, but up to 50 Tory MPs could oppose the controversial plans, according to The Sunday Telegraph.
David Burrowes, Conservative MP for Enfield Southgate, claims dozens of ministers and parliamentary private secretaries are geared up to join the revolt unless the Government waters down its plans.
Chancellor George Osborne revealed plans last summer to give councils the power to extend Sunday opening hours in his Budget after the general election.
Two ministers are even considering quitting to vote against the extension, it was reported.
Burrowes said: “The Government should recognise the strength of opposition for a plan that was not in our manifesto and should at least agree a compromise, which restricts deregulation to tourist zones,” he said.
The SNP was originally opposed to the plans, but has since said it will support them after amendments. Labour opposes the relaxation, which means big shops will be able to open beyond the current six-hour restriction.
Last month it emerged the Government had also been threatened with legal action over it plans on Sunday trading hours.
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