SUPERMARKET workers in Acton told their MP of a worrying rise in abuse they have received since the Covid-19 pandemic started.
Rupa Huq, who represents Ealing Central and Acton, met staff at Morrison’s in the High Street following a call by 23 of the UK’s top retailers for tougher penalties for those who assault workers in the their jobs.
More than 400 retail workers face violence and abuse in the workplace every day, according to a survey by the British Retail Consortium.
The MP said it highlighted the need to pass a Private Member’s Bill that would ensure the protection of staff by creating a specific offence of abusing, threatening or assaulting a retail worker.
She added: “On the basis of my discussions with staff here, I will be supporting the Bill on Friday as tougher penalties are quite clearly required.
“We clapped for carers week after week. but supermarket staff such as the team at Morrison’s are equally deserving of our immense gratitude.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here