MSP pushes to protect shop and bar workers
A Labour MSP wants to create a new law to give shop and bar staff who request identification for alcohol and cigarettes extra protection against violence.
Daniel Johnson will launch a consultation on a Member’s Bill to create new offences around the assault and abuse of workers who sell agerestricted items.
He announced the plan at yesterday’s Scottish Grocers Federation (SGF) annual conference, later saying: “Violence and abuse has become far too common place for staff in shops, bars and pubs across Scotland.
“It is unacceptable for us to regard such abuse as ‘just part of the job’.
“That’s why I am delighted to announce that I am bringing forward legislation to protect workers across Scotland.”
Pete Cheema, SGF chief executive, said the proposed new law would act as a “real deterrent”.
He added: “Physical and verbal abuse are everyday realities for many stores.”