MSP seeks retailers’ views on proposal
THE quest to provide retail workers with additional protection under the law has taken another step forward following the launch of a consultation on Scottish Labour MSP Daniel Johnson’s proposed retail crime bill.
Johnson’s proposed bill would create new offences concerning violence and abuse directed at shopworkers and others who are involved in the sale and supply of age-restricted goods and services, and the MSP is now seeking input from retailers and other industry stakeholders.
Following a launch event at Scotmid Pilrig in Edinburgh, the consultation went live at www.notpartofthejob.com where retailers are invited to read the full proposal for the bill as well as fill out the consultation. Retailers and other interested parties have until 20 April to submit their views.
Speaking after the consultation launch, Daniel Johnson said: “Abuse against shop workers is on the rise, with recent statistics showing it at a 10-year high in Scotland.
“Nobody arriving at their work should expect to face abuse or even assault in their day, yet that is the unfortunate reality for many working in retail.
“As it stands, the law simply doesn’t offer sufficient protection to those workers. My proposed law would change that.
“I am delighted to have received the support of both trade unions and retail businesses, who are united to stamp out abuse in the workplace.
“I would strongly encourage all members of the public to respond to my proposal and have their say at www.notpartofthejob.com.”
Scotmid’s head of profit protection Jim McFedries, who attended the launch, said: “As a community convenience retailer with a sizeable presence across Scotland, Scotmid would welcome the introduction of new legislation to protect our colleagues from violence and abuse.”
