21.   After months of heated debate between politicians, union leaders and shop-owners, Danish legislators on Thursday passed a law which radically liberalizes shopping hours.

22.   An easing of shopping hours has long been opposed by trade unions, which were afraid small shops would be forced out of business.

23.   Bessa sided with large retailers, who argued that reducing shopping hours, especially on Sunday afternoons, would lead to reduced profits and staff cutbacks.

24.   But European consumer groups have opposed the restictions, demanding longer shopping hours to accomodate women who have entered the work force in increasing numbers in recent years.

25.   Germany extends shopping hours.

26.   In addition to extended shopping hours, they could also enjoy special discounts and offers at other dining and shopping establishments.

27.   Lawmakers who voted down a proposal to allow longer shopping hours may find themselves shopping for a new government soon.

28.   Most shop clerks are women and expanding weekend shopping hours would make it more difficult for women to balance roles as mothers and bread-winners, Issen said.

29.   Parliament began debate Thursday on a bill that would extend German shopping hours, which are among the most restrictive in Europe.

30.   Pressure to reform shopping hours has been building for years.