Union ‘deeply disappointed’ as proposal for law to protect shopworkers is rejected

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Retail trade union Usdaw has expressed deep disappointment that the government yesterday (7 July) rejected proposals for a new law to protect shopworkers from violence, threats and abuse, despite evidence that incidents have doubled during the coronavirus pandemic.

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The government set out plans to crack down on abuse and violence against shopworkers following a call for evidence, but did not extend the law to protect retail staff.

Paddy Lillis, Usdaw general secretary, said: “We are deeply disappointed that the government has rejected legislating for stiffer penalties for those who assault workers. They have failed to listen to the voices of shop workers and retailers, who had jointly called for a simple stand-alone offence that is widely recognised and understood by the public, police, CPS, the judiciary and most importantly criminals.

“Retail staff have a crucial role in our communities and that role must be valued and respected, they deserve the protection of the law. We are shocked that violence, threats and abuse have doubled during this national emergency. At a time when we should all be working together to get through this crisis, it is a disgrace that the people working to keep food on the shelves for their local communities are being abused and assaulted.”