Karen Whitefield supports bill to protect workers

Jan 27 2010 by Judith Tonner, Airdrie & Coatbridge

AIRDRIE and Shotts MSP Karen Whitefield is backing a new bill to give greater protection to Scotland’s workers.

The Workers (Aggravated Offences) Bill has gained cross-party support at Holyrood and has also garnered backing from trade unions, councils and transport bodies.

It would protect people whose jobs involve face-to-face contact with the public and introduce punishments up to 12 months in prison or a fine of £10,000.

One of those welcoming the news is Jean Hession, who works at the Airdrie branch of Morrisons and who met Ms Whitefield to discuss the proposal.

Jean said: “Most customers are lovely but it’s because of the odd few that think they can make a shopworker’s life miserable that we need this bill.

“Hopefully, it will mean that unhappy customers think twice before taking their anger out on workers, and I’ll feel safer when doing my job.”

Ms Whitefield said: “I supported this bill because all workers in Airdrie and Shotts who face the public as part of their job should be able to go about their work without fear of violence or intimidation.