Lockdown in Moray and Aberdeenshire: Bill to protect shopworkers
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A new law to protect Scottish shopworkers from violence and abuse has been welcomed by a retail trade union.
Usdaw has called on MSPs across the parties to back The Protection of Workers Bill when it is debated in the Scottish Parliament on Thursday.
The union says that abuse, threats and violence against shop staff had doubled this year.
Paddy Lillis, its General Secretary, said: "We hope the Scottish Parliament will lead the way on protection of shopworkers by passing this Bill.
"At a time when we should all be working together to get through this crisis, it is a disgrace that people working to keep food on the shelves are being abused and assaulted.
"Action is required. Our message is clear, abuse is not part of the job.
"Retail staff are key workers delivering essential services and that role must be valued and respected, they deserve the protection of the law.
"Shops are the cornerstone of our communities and we continue to work with the employers to improve health and safety for staff.
"We also call on customers to stay calm and respect shopworkers."
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